Turtles survey in the Maldives

INTRODUCTION: Recognition of individuals within a population is a key issue for most behavioral and ecological studies of wild animals. Although artificial marking was considered almost a prerequisite for behavioral work in the past, an increasing number of studies of wild animals have shown that various vertebrates can be reliably identified through natural marks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Photographic identification (Photo-ID) is an approach that utilizes photographs of conspicuous features on the animal’s body to aid in its individual recognition.

We’re monitoring Hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) around Donfan Island, our «Turtle Reef».

Natural marks on turtles could be found through facial profile photographs. We compare the shape and arrangement of facial scutes.