Identification of Sea Turtles by Egg Dimension (Principle Investigator - Dr. Reia Guppy)

Poaching of eggs and meat of sea turtles have been identified as a problem by the Wildlife Division under the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries.  One issue is the ability to identify eggs of protected species, particularly if these eggs are seized off-site. Working with the Wildlife Division, eggs from each sea turtle species are being measured using both manual (Vernier calipers) and photographs (with Image J).  Comparisons of methods as well as species are being made to determine if reptile eggs can be identified using size dimensions only.  Currently, eggs are primarily measured from nests of green (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) turtles that are being trans-located.  Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), and Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) turtle eggs will be measured from 2018 where possible. If distinct differences in size morphology can be ascertained, this information could then be used towards forensic analysis of seized eggs, and possible prosecution of poachers.

Measurement of newly laid hawksbill egg (Eretmochelys imbricata) prior to translocation of nest.