Thirty-two Parlameros -two women and thirty men- registered with the National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP) South Coast Regional Office to strengthen the conservation and protection of sea turtles along Guatemala’s Pacific coast. 

Parlameros are volunteers who patrol the beaches to identify nests, record information about the eggs, and transfer them to hatcheries registered with CONAP, where they are incubated under safe conditions until hatching, after which the hatchlings are released into the sea. When collecting Parlama (Olive Ridley) eggs, at least 20% of each clutch is left behind, since this species has increased in abundance and allows for this sustainable management without affecting its population. In contrast, eggs from more vulnerable species such as the Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), and Eastern Pacific Green (Chelonia mydas) remain fully protected to ensure their survival. 

Left photo: In Guatemala, four species of sea turtles nest along the Pacific coast, the most common being the Parlama (Lepidochelys olivacea). Right photo: Group of registered Parlameros. Photos by José Moreira (WCS Guatemala). 

In addition to nest protection, Parlameros also participate in monitoring, patrolling, and community awareness activities, reinforcing the conservation of turtles and their habitat. 

The activity was supported by the Municipality of Nueva Concepción through its Environmental Management Unit, CONAP, Magdalena, WCS Guatemala, and with the accompaniment of the National Civil Police and the Division for the Protection of Nature (DIPRONA). 

In Guatemala, four species of sea turtles nest along the Pacific coast: the Parlama (Lepidochelys olivacea), the Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), the Eastern Pacific Green or Black (Chelonia mydas), and the Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata). According to CONAP data, more than 600,000 Parlama hatchlings are released every year thanks to joint work with communities, the private sector, government, and NGOs. 

Through these actions, Parlameros strengthen community participation, protect biodiversity, and contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of the Guatemalan Pacific coastal zone. 

Together for sustainable development!