Movements of the leatherback turtle nesting females along the Paria peninsula, Northeastern Venezuela

Utilizing nocturnal nesting records, this study presents, for the first time, evidence of southern migratory patterns exhibited by the leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) originating from primary national rookeries in the Southern Caribbean Sea between 2005 and 2014, specifically to Los Garzos Beach in the Paria Gulf, Venezuela. Additionally, this research provides detailed observations regarding nesting activities at the aforementioned beach. Throughout this decade, a total of 195 sightings of the species were documented; however, only two females were identified as previously tagged outside of Los Garzos. The individuals tagged in situ made a total of ten visits, resulting in eight successful nesting events. The remigration interval for the nester tagged WC7419, also tagged at Los Garzos Beach, was recorded at two years, with an average nesting frequency of approximately nine days per season. Despite the limited number of recaptures, it is posited that the migratory movements associated with leatherback nesting during this period were extensive throughout the Peninsula which are approximately 90 kilometers apart. Conversely, data from the subsequent decade (2015–2024) reveal a concerning decline in nesting trends, potentially attributable to reduced migratory behaviors resulting from anthropogenic impacts and various biological factors.