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Over 600 or 300 turtles nests each year; in Aldabra with about 25 turtles; Amirantes, with 150 turtles; Providence, with 40 turtles based on nesting records. Nesting season occurs from September to January. Eggs per clutch ranges from 125 to 197 eggs with a mean of 161 for 64 clutches. Duration of incubation lasts from 56 to 79 days with a mean of 62 days for undisturbed nets (Ref. 1397). During reproductive season, adult hawksbill turtles moves away from the nesting beaches to alternative foraging grounds while immature turtles may opt to reside in areas close to their natal beaches. Alternating patterns of short and shallow foraging was followed by long and deep resting dives (Ref. 81166). C: Refs. 81166, 92951; M: Ref. 1397; O: Refs. 1397, 92951. |