GVI Seychelles Curieuse

Terrestrial Conservation Expedition

Phase Report

2012
Submitted in whole to Global Vision International Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA)

Produced by April J Burt Curieuse Island Science Coordinator And

Dan White Ant Hardman Michele Beyer Conor Price

Base Manager Dive Officer Scholar Volunteer

Christophe Mason-Parker Rachel Walls Susie Lilley Duncan Hall

Country Director General Staff Scholar Volunteer

Vicki Lazarus

Volunteer

Veronica Ramsbottom

Volunteer

Saskia Geluk

Volunteer

GVI Seychelles - Curieuse/Marine and Terrestrial Conservation Expedition Address: GVI c/o SNPA, PO Box 1240, Victoria, Mah, Seychelles Email: Seychelles@gvi.co.uk Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com

Executive Summary
This report summarises the science programmes conducted by the Seychelles Global Vision International (GVI) Expedition on Curieuse Island, between September 2011 and May 2012, The terrestrial expedition continued the on-going Coco de Mer census by adding a further 1247 to the so far 688 palms surveyed. The results continue to show an even sex ratio with over half being juveniles. Of the juvenile palms 3% are seedlings indicating a small amount of rejuvenation. A key finding within this data set is the 0.7m difference in average trunk height between male and female trees; female being taller. This is the opposite of the data findings found for the praslin populations which show that male trees are significantly taller than female trees. The mean number of nuts each female tree produces is 0.2. The mangrove distribution and composition surveys are now complete totalling 5.8km of transects. Rhizophora mucronata is the most abundant species followed closely by Brugiera gymnorhiza. From the current data a slight zonation of species can be seen with Rhizophora mucronata dominating the seaward zone, Avicennia marina the central zone and Brugiera gymnorhiza the landward zone. During the 2011-12 nesting season a total of 393 emergences were recorded, 80% of which were recorded on Grande Anse. Of these emergences 205 were successfully laid nests. The hatchling success was 96% overall however the relocated nest hatchling success was only 4%. The most suitable nesting beach was determined by evaluating the amount of emergences each female made in order to lay one successful clutch of eggs. The most suitable nesting beaches are Grande Anse and Anse Papaie respectively and the worst beach was Anse Cemetiere. Since identification pictures began to be collected in 2010 there has been 53 different females encountered nesting on Curieuse. Based on the number of nests laid a conservative estimate of annual nesting population was made; around 50 females nested on Curieuse during the 2011-12 nesting season. The importance of Curieuse as a nesting rookery for Hawksbills is apparent; recommendations are made for future monitoring and conservation management.

List of contents
Executive Summary .............................................................................................................. 3 List of contents ...................................................................................................................... 4 List of Figures ....................................................................................................................... 5 1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 6 2. TERRESTRIAL SURVEY PROGRAMME ......................................................................... 7 2.1 Introduction.................................................................................................................. 7 2.1.1 Importance of Coco de Mer ................................................................................... 7 2.1.2 Importance of Mangrove forests ............................................................................ 8 2.1.3 Importance of Sea Turtles ..................................................................................... 8 2.2 Aims ............................................................................................................................ 9 2.3 Methodology .............................................................................................................. 10 2.3.1 Study Sites .......................................................................................................... 10 2.3.2 Training ............................................................................................................... 10 2.3.3 Survey Methodology ........................................................................................... 11 3. Results ............................................................................................................................ 14 3.1 Coco De Mer ............................................................................................................. 14 3.2 Mangroves................................................................................................................. 15 3.3 Curieuse 2011-2012 Turtle nesting season ............................................................... 17 3.3.2 Population estimation .......................................................................................... 18 3.3.3 Hatchling success ............................................................................................... 18 3.3.4 Nesting Hawksbill Identification ........................................................................... 20 4. Discussion ...................................................................................................................... 23 4.1 Coco de Mer .............................................................................................................. 23 4.2 Mangroves................................................................................................................. 23 4.3 Turtles ....................................................................................................................... 24 5. Conclusion and future recommendations ........................................................................ 25 6. References ..................................................................................................................... 26

List of Figures
Figure 1: Courtesy of Google Images 2011. Curieuse Island nesting beaches. A= Anse Jose, B= Anse Caiman/Cemetiere, C= Grande Anse, D= Anse Papaie and E= Anse Laraie.

Figure 2: Graph showing the amount of Coco de Mer palms surveyed over time from 2009 until Phase 4 2011. Figure 3: Pie chart showing the sex ratios and breakdown of lifestages for juvenile coco de mer trees on Curieuse Island. Figure 4: Map showing the areas of Curieuse Island which have been surveyed for Coco de Mer. Figure 5: Graph showing the amount of mangrove surveys carried out for each expedition phase.

Figure 6: Map showing the mangrove survey progress on Curieuse Island in 2011. Figure 7: Map showing basic species distribution of mangroves. Colour denotes the main species found in that area not the only species. Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia marina, Xylocarpus granatum, Xylocarpus molluccensis, Bruguiera gymnorhiza & Lumnitzera racemosa. Figure 8: Graph showing the abundance of each species recorded on transects through the mangroves. Figure 9: Graph showing the distribution of activity throughout the previous two nesting seasons.

Figure 10: Graph showing the beach specific number of successful lays for the 2011-2012 nesting season. Figure 11: Graph showing the beach specific hatchling success rate expressed as a percentage of hatchlings that made it out of the nest alive.

Figure 12: Graph showing the beach specific mean number of emergences per female per clutch. Table 1: Table containing Tag information for nesting females encountered on Curieuse Island between October 2010 and March 2012. Table 2: Table containing the allocated code for each photo identified nesting female from October 2010 to March 2012. Underlined photo ID numbers indicate where photo ID has been successful in matching two turtles.

1. Introduction
Global Vision International (GVI) Seychelles comprises two expeditions based on separate granitic islands. The Curieuse expedition is based on a small granitic island of the same name located to the north of the larger island of Praslin, with base camp located at Anse Jose within the Curieuse Marine National Park. This marine park has been designated since 1979 and represents an area of 14.7km2 All of GVIs scientific work in the Seychelles is carried out on behalf of our local partners and at their request, using their methodology; GVI supplies experienced staff, trained volunteers and equipment to conduct research in support of their ongoing work. GVIs key partner is the Seychelles Centre for Marine Research and Technology (SCMRT), the research arm of SNPA (Seychelles National Parks Authority). Additional local scientific partners are the

Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS) and the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA). In October 2010, two British Technology and Education Council (BTEC) courses were introduced into the programme, as well as Short-Term Marine Internships. Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA): A local parastatal organisation partly

funded by the government, encompassing the Seychelles Centre for Marine Research and Technology (SCMRT) and the Marine Parks Authority (MPA). These organisations have the respective aims of conducting marine research in the Seychelles and management and protection of the marine parks. The coral, fish and Coco de Mer monitoring carried out for SCMRT constitutes the majority of the work conducted by the volunteers. Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS): A local NGO that carries out

environmental research in the Seychelles, currently monitoring whale sharks, cetaceans and turtles around Mah. GVI assists with all three of these research programmes by reporting incidental sightings of cetaceans and whale sharks, documenting the presence or absence of turtles on every dive throughout the phase, conducting in-water turtle surveys and nesting turtle surveys.

Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA):

The governing body which oversees the

management and regulation of commercial and artisanal fisheries in the Seychelles. This government agency is directly concerned with setting the catch, bag and seasonal limits that apply to local stocks on an annual basis, as well as managing the international export

industry that is generated from the harvest of fisheries across the Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

2. TERRESTRIAL SURVEY PROGRAMME

2.1 Introduction
The Seychelles Islands are the only mid-oceanic granitic islands in the world. Isolated for 75 million years, the Seychelles now hosts a unique assemblage of flora and fauna, many of them extremely primitive. Such ancient species include endemic palm trees such as the Coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldavica). However, 200 years of human settlement has exerted a serious influence on the native biota of these islands. Habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as invasive species, have caused several extinctions and reduced populations of many species to extremely perilous levels. Human use continues and poses a serious threat to the Seychelles native flora and fauna. Curieuse Island is a small granitic island (1.78 sq mi) in the Seychelles, close to the north coast of the island of Praslin. Curieuse is notable for its bare red earth intermingled with the unique Coco de Mer palms, one of the cultural icons of the Seychelles, only being present on the two islands. In 1979 Curieuse and surrounding waters were declared the Curieuse Marine National Park in order to protect the native wildlife. Today it is the home of roughly 500 Aldabra Giant Tortoise, 300 of which live at the Ranger's Station and approximately 200 in the wild. Around Curieuse the sea grass and reef habitats provide ideal location for sea turtles and the beaches are an important turtle nesting location. Another key part of the Curieuse marine ecosystem are the mangrove forests, a group of terrestrial trees adapted to cope with high salinity and low oxygen environments. They are found most extensively around the lagoon area and bridge the gap between the marine and the terrestrial environment, playing a key role in maintaining optimum reef building conditions for corals. 2.1.1 Importance of Coco de Mer Meaning coconut of the sea, Coco de Mer is an endemic palm carrying the largest seed pod in the world. Taking 20-40 years to reach reproductive maturity, these palms, which can reach up to 30m high, have a slow reproductive rate. Renowned as a flagship species for the

Seychelles, and subject to conservation tourism revenue through nut harvesting and sale, this palm merits special consideration These nuts that classically resemble the female form take between 6-7 years to mature, weighing up to 20kgs and are popularly sold to tourists for between 150-300 from licensed sellers. In an attempt to deter poachers, it is illegal to collect unlicensed seeds as the Seychelles government is trying to protect the genetic heritage of the islands by keeping strict control of the trees. However, these nuts still have a high demand on the black market. 2.1.2 Importance of Mangrove forests The Seychelles is known to be home to seven species of mangrove, of which six have been found on Curieuse itself. Mangrove systems play an important part in ensuring a high level of water quality and clarity, essential for corals to thrive in, by trapping sedimentation and land run-off. They provide vital nurseries for fish, sharks and crustaceans, are an important habitat for birds, algae, bryozoans and supply essential nutrients for marine creatures such as fish and shrimp. In addition to all this, they are a crucial buffer-zone for protecting inland areas from high wave action such as tsunamis. The mangroves surrounding Baie Laraie are of particular interest. The causeway built in order to form the Turtle Pond also created unique conditions for the mangrove habitat and may have changed their population make-up significantly. For all these reasons it is important to gain an understanding of the species diversity and distribution within this mangrove area. 2.1.3 Importance of Sea Turtles Seychelles hosts globally important populations of marine turtles, including one of the five largest nesting populations of the "critically endangered" Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) remaining in the world. The largest hawksbill populations remaining in the western Indian Ocean occur in the Seychelles, where an estimated 12301740 females nested annually in the early 1980s (Mortimer, 1984). Since then, however, populations have suffered further declines due to the nearly complete harvest of nesting females that occurred at most islands during the 30 years prior to 1994, when a total legal ban on turtle harvest was implemented (Mortimer, 1998). An exception to the downward trend has been recorded at Cousin Island, which has been well protected since 1970. The Cousin Island population is showing signs of increase (Mortimer and Bresson, 1994b; Mortimer, 1995b; Mortimer

and Bresson, 1999), but represents only 27% of the estimated total number of hawksbills that nested in Seychelles during the early 1980s (Mortimer, 1984). The exploitation of hawksbill turtles in Seychelles became particularly intense after the mid-1960s with the advent of the mask and snorkel, spearguns, underwater lights, outboard engines, and the high prices paid for raw shell (Mortimer, 1984). Mortimer (1984) estimated that 4771% of the total estimated annual nesting population in the granitic Seychelles Islands was killed during the 198082 nesting seasons. Destruction of breeding and foraging habitat, especially in the granitic Seychelles, is an increasingly serious problem (Mortimer, 1998). There are also significant nesting populations of the "endangered" Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas). Although Loggerhead and Leatherback Turtles feed in Seychelles waters, no breeding activity has been recorded. Green Turtles have been heavily exploited for their meat in the inner islands of Seychelles since the 17th century and are a now very rare in the inner islands of Seychelles. Unfortunately, the few green turtles remaining in the inner islands are still intensely exploited and may well disappear completely if that trend is not reversed. Both Green and Hawksbill turtles are nationally protected in the Seychelles and were granted full legal protection in the 1994 Turtles Protection Regulations Curieuse Island waters are home to both Green and Hawksbill turtles as the surrounding reefs and sea grass beds provide ample food sources. The beaches also provide a nesting habitat for both species but particularly the Hawksbills. This alone is enough to highlight the importance of the island. Current data trends show an increase in nesting activity on Curieuse and so it is now of paramount importance to continue studying the nesting population and uphold all conservation measures to protect this globally important species. Hawksbill Turtles in Seychelles and along the East African coast nest primarily during daylight hours compared to Hawksbill Turtle populations elsewhere, which tend to nest either strictly or primarily at night (Mortimer & Bresson, 1999). Green Turtles on the other hand nest primarily at night (Mortimer, 1984). Historical data gathered in Seychelles shows that both Hawksbill and Green Turtles can nest during any month of the year. Hawksbill Turtles, however, show a distinct peak in nesting from October to February (Mortimer, 1998).

2.2 Aims
The aims of the terrestrial expedition of phase 114 on Curieuse, Seychelles include the following: Assessment of nesting turtle populations on Curieuse. 9

Assessment of turtle hatchling success on Curieuse Island. Assessment of the species composition in the mangrove forests around Baie Laraie. Assessment of the Coco de Mer population and distribution.

2.3 Methodology
2.3.1 Study Sites

Figure 1: Courtesy of Google Images 2011. Curieuse Island nesting beaches. A= Anse Jose, B=
Anse Caiman/Cemetiere, C= Grande Anse, D= Anse Papaie and E= Anse Laraie.

2.3.2 Training 2.3.2.1 Terrestrial Health and Safety All Expedition Members on the terrestrial program are taught high levels of safety precautions to work safely on beaches or walking off-path to sites. They are also provided with first aid training through the Emergency First Response first aid course taught on-site 2.3.2.2 Terrestrial Species identification All Expedition Members are required to learn species of turtle, mangrove and Coco de Mer. Training is initially provided in the form of presentations, workshops and informal discussion

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with the expedition staff. Self study materials are also available in the form of textbooks and fact sheets. Turtle track identification is tested using actual track markings on land, for which a high level of competency is required. Expedition Members are initially accompanied by staff members on mangrove, Coco de Mer and turtle walks; their observations and responses are noted and staff supervision continues until the Expedition Member has demonstrated accurate identification of all necessary species, tracks and procedures. 2.3.3 Survey Methodology 2.3.3.1 Coco de Mer Population Mapping As part as our on-going support for SCMRT we continue to map the population distribution of Coco de Mer palms. Located throughout most of the island, expedition members can begin mapping at any location. Once a palm is found it is identified as either a Juvenile, Male or Female species and an individual identifying code it is painted on the trunk - or on a young leaf - for future recognition. The location of this palm at the trunk will be saved into a GPS. The length of the longest leaf, number of dead leaves and number of green leaves are also recorded. If the palm is an adult, the trunk girth will be measured at breast height (150cm) and the trunk height recorded. If the palm is particularly tall then the trunk height and leaf length is measured from 10 metres away using a clinometer. If the palm is a female additional data collected includes the number of infructescenses with bearing nuts, number of double nuts, number of aborted nuts, and number of nuts that are either primary, maturing or ripe. If the plant is male then the number of flowering catkins is recorded. 2.3.3.4 Beach Patrols for nesting Turtles The October to December period coincided with the Hawksbill turtle nesting season. Beach patrols of the known nesting beaches were conducted as often as possible during this time. This land-based turtle monitoring work includes beach walks, documentation of nesting tracks and investigation of newly hatched clutches. The surveys are conducted on foot, with the teams walking along the upper beach searching for signs of tracks or body pits, on the main beach and also within the coastal vegetation. Tide timetables are consulted to determine the state of the tide at the time of each patrol.

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All tracks, nest sites and nesting turtles encountered on the patrol were recorded. Any sightings made during the return along the beach should be included in that patrol data. Members are taught to scan the beach regularly during the patrol to spot newly emerging turtles. If tracks are found, track width is estimated from an average taken from three measured widest points in the sand. If a dig or nesting spot is found, then this is also recorded. The emergence date should be estimated where the turtle is not actually seen. Where a

complete track ends in a suitable nest sight and there are signs of digging and covering, it can be assumed that the turtle has nested. Emergence types are recorded as follows.... Half Moon A: Wandering but no digging B: U-shaped crawl to the high tide line ESBO: Emergence stopped by obstacle Did Not Lay C: Considerable disturbance, evidence of digging (body pitt & egg chamber) no covering. D: Evidence of digging, no covering. Laid Variations E: Considerable disturbance, evidence of digging and covering. Probably Did Not Lay Probably Laid ? Cannot tell if laid or not

All tracks are disguised so that it cannot be mistaken for new tracks later on and that it will not lead possible poachers to a nest location. Further to the above all laid nests should be recorded using a GPS and the number of attempts for each activity recorded. The nest should be marked to show it has been recorded. If a nesting turtle is encountered on a beach patrol, expedition members are taught appropriate behaviour. They must only approach the turtle from behind, and only once the turtle has begun laying, and continue to remain quiet, low and out of its sight. Measurements are taken from the longest point along its carapace, tag numbers or evidence of a previous tag from its fin, evidence of disease/ scarring/injuries or other distinguishing features. If it was possible, members were encouraged to count the number of eggs being laid. Whilst the turtle is laying photographs (without a flash) of each cheek should be taken and any distinguishing features. 12

For each patrol undertaken the date, patrol number, time of day, names of recorders, beach visited, if tracks were found (along with width, likely species, emergence time, evidence of digs, and evidence of a successful nest, turtle carapace length and tags/scars/disease. Hatchling Success Hatchling success can be difficult to gauge especially because the hatchlings mostly emerge at night. It can be done however by excavating nests which have hatched recently. When hatchlings emerge they leave behind a sink hole (the sand sinks down to fill the space where the eggs were). Ideally you would monitor a nest around its due date and look out for the sink hole. When excavating a nest record the number of: 1. Live hatchlings (stragglers) 2. Dead hatchlings 3. Egg cases (hatched eggs) 4. White eggs (unfertilized) 5. Black eggs (fertilized but embryo died) 6. Dead pipping (died during hatching process) 7. Alive pipping (still trying to hatch from egg)

The number of egg cases plus the number of black and white eggs should represent the total number of eggs laid by the female (ideally this would have been recorded when the nest was laid). The following equation will give you hatchling success rate:

))

3.3.3.5 Mangrove Species & Distribution Methodology This phase we completed the surveys and are now able to produce an overview of the distribution & abundance of mangrove species surrounding the old turtle pond in Baie Laraie. Starting from the most eastern inland point of the mangroves, three surveyors walk in a westerly direction (270) in a line spaced 3 metres apart. They stop every two metres and the person in the centre records numbers and species of any mangrove trees themselves

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and the surveyors to the left and to the right. The transect continues until the edge of the mangroves, whether this be on the seaward or inland side. Transects run parallel, approximately 10 metres apart, and are marked, both by GPS point and visual tag, (e.g. cloth tags tied to a tree) every 20 metres to ensure they can be followed again accurately.

3. Results
3.1 Coco De Mer
During the January to April survey period 812 coco de mer palms were surveyed which brings the total number surveyed by GVI up to 1993. Figure 2 shows a large increase in survey effort over the past two years. Average dimensions for both male and female trees are very similar but overall female trees have taller trunks (4.21m) than males (3.52m) and slightly longer leaves (females 3.4m and males 3.2). The average number of nuts per female is 0.2 (N=223).
900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2009 2010 2011 2012 (Jan-April)

Figure 2: Graph showing the amount of Coco de Mer palms surveyed over time from 2009 until Phase 4 2011.

The sex ratios remain equal as stated in previous reports and Fig. 3 shows that the
Immature 5% Seedling 3% Not Recorded 17% Male 14%

majority of unsexed trees are classed as juveniles (more than 3 leaves and no trunk). The proportion of seedlings recorded is
Female 15%

relatively low reflecting an unequal balance among each lifestage.

Figure 3: Pie chart showing the sex ratios and breakdown of lifestages for juvenile coco de mer trees on Curieuse Island.

Juvenile 46%

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The distribution of the Coco de Mer trees so far surveyed can be seen in Fig.4, it is clear from this map that a proportion of the coordinates recorded were inaccurate due to GPS error. It is important to map the coordinates in order to have a clear idea of which parts of the island need to be surveyed.

Figure 4: Map showing the areas of Curieuse Island which have been surveyed for Coco de Mer.

3.2 Mangroves
The Curieuse Island Mangrove transects began in February 2011 and are now fully completed totalling 5.8 km of transect. Fig.5 shows the amount of mangrove completed during each survey phase showing that during phase 114 & 121 the majority of the survey work was completed. Incidentally these were periods when the marine project wasnt running and therefore more time and people were allocated to this project.

5000 Metres completed 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 111 112 113 114 121
Figure 5: Graph showing the amount of mangrove surveys carried out for each expedition phase.

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The map below (Fig 6) shows an approximate diagram of transects completed in the mangroves. The map indicates that the species distribution and abundance surveys have recorded a thorough representation of the Curieuse Island mangrove forest.

Figure 6: Map showing the mangrove survey progress on Curieuse Island in 2011.

A study using GPS to mark the key areas for each species would be beneficial, however for now to use as a basic reference, a map showing species distribution based on personal observation is seen below in Fig. 7.

Figure 7: Map showing basic species distribution of mangroves. Colour denotes the main species found in that area not the only species. Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia marina, Xylocarpus granatum, Xylocarpus molluccensis, Bruguiera gymnorhiza & Lumnitzera racemosa.

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The completion of the mangrove surveys means that a summary can be made in terms of species abundance and predominance. Figure 8 represents the abundance of each species and shows that Rhizophora mucronata is the most abundant species, followed by Bruguiera gymnorhiza and Avicennia marina (40%, 35% and 19% respectively).
900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Number of trees on transect

A. marina

B. gymnorhiza

C. tagal

L. racernosa

R. mucronata

S. alba

Xylocarpus sp.

Figure 8: Graph showing the abundance of each species recorded on transects through the mangroves .

3.3 Curieuse 2011-2012 Turtle nesting season

3.3.1 General results Results for the 2011-2012 nesting season show that both Hawksbill and Green turtles have nested on Curieuse. The total number of emergences recorded was 393 and of these 205 were recorded as lays or probable lays. The data shows a slight rise in activity from the previous nesting season. Fig.9 shows that November and December consistently are the peak nesting period for Curieuse Island.
6 5 Activities per day 4 3 2 1 0

Figure 9: Graph showing the distribution of activity throughout the previous two nesting seasons.

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The nesting activity distribution for the 2011-2012 nesting season is similar to the previous years (see Fig. 10) with 80% of activity taking place on Grande Anse. As mentioned in GVI 114 report there seems to be a negative correlation between beach activity and human interference.

160 140 120 No. of Nests 100 80 60 40 20 0 Grande Anse Anse Papaie Anse Laraie Anse Jose Anse Caiman/Cimitiere

Figure 10: Graph showing the beach specific number of successful lays for the 2011-2012 nesting season.

3.3.2 Population estimation Population Estimation: There is insufficient data to determine how many clutches the average Curieuse Hawksbill lays per nesting season but by basing our estimate on the average clutch data of 3.6, acquired on Cousin Island 1994 study (Mortimer and Bresson), we can estimate that approximately 56 females laid 205 nests during the 2011-2012 nesting season.

3.3.3 Hatchling success The 2011-2012 Hawksbill nesting season is the first year in which hatchling data has been collected. This data collection presented a learning curve for GVI staff members which will enhance the following season hatchling data collection. Mean clutch size was obtained in two ways; firstly a mean clutch size was obtained from personal observation of nesting turtles and secondly by the excavation of hatched nests. The mean clutch sizes were 154 (N=17) and 168 (N=57) respectively. Further study is needed to see whether recording clutch size by nest excavation is accurate enough bearing in mind the potential for removal of eggs from the nest by crabs during the incubation period. In this case however it would seem that mean clutch size has not been impacted by this when compared with the original clutch amount. The solution to this is to gain both original clutch size and eventual clutch size for each nest and ascertain whether any eggs have been taken. Overall hatchling success, recorded as the percentage of hatchlings which left the nest, was calculated to be overall 96% (StDev 18

5.4). Not included in this was a relocated nest hatchling success rate of only 2%. Fig.11 shows a beach specific breakdown of hatchling success showing that Anse Jose has the lowest success rate. Further study is required in this area. The mean nest depth was 56cm (N=37, StDev=5.5).
100 95 % hatchling success 90 85 80 75 70 Grande Anse Anse papaie Anse Jose

Figure 11: Graph showing the beach specific hatchling success rate expressed as a percentage of hatchlings that made it out of the nest alive.

Beach suitability can be measured by calculating the number of times each female emerges in order to lay one clutch of eggs. The lower the number of emergences per clutch is the more suitable the beach is, reflecting a lower abundance of aborted attempts. Fig 12 shows that the least suitable beach for laying is Anse Cemetiere & Caiman and the most suitable beaches are Grande Anse, Anse Papaie and Anse Laraie. These results perhaps address a link between hatchling success and nesting success but further studies are needed to determine whether the factors affecting nesting success may also affect hatchling success.

No.of emergences per clutch

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Grande Anse Anse Papaie Anse Laraie Anse Jose Anse Cemetiere/ Caiman

Figure 12: Graph showing the beach specific mean number of emergences per female per clutch.

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3.3.4 Nesting Hawksbill Identification Since October 2010, 20 females have been encountered with metal tags located in their front flippers. The tag information recorded in Table 1 shows that most tagged turtles have only been encountered once so far however on three occasions we have re-encountered tagged females. The time between encounters varies but our most commonly encountered female (SEY9431/9432) had 18 and 14 days intervals respectively. Although most turtles were tagged on Curieuse others have migrated from St Anne and Mahe. The following tables have been updated since the previous report to include the January-March section of the 2011-12 besting season.

Tag numbers
0129/0130 305 E1897 SEY2626/2627

Date/s Encountered
27.10.10 6.11.10 6.12.10 17.10.11 16.11.11

Tag Origin
Curieuse 1992 ? Curieuse 1995 Curieuse 2007

E2631/2630 E2634/2635 4770 SEY4944 SEY6302 SEY6304 6305 SEY 6959 7509/7508

16.11.10 5.12.11 11.11.10 18.2.11 20.11.11 5.12.11 19.10.10 18.1.11 18.10.10 3.11.10

Curieuse 2004 Curieuse 2007 Mahe 1999 Curieuse 2002 Curieuse 2002 Curieuse 2004 ? Cousine 2004 Curieuse 2004

SEY7510 7545/7540 SEY9431/9432

5.12.11 12.11.10 24.10.11 9.11.11 23.11.11

Curieuse 2004 Curieuse 2004 St Anne 2006

Table 1: Table containing Tag information for nesting females encountered on Curieuse Island between October 2010 and March 2012.

Since photo ID pictures began being taken in 2010, 61 nesting females have had left and right cheek shots taken. Recent comparisons of the photographs revealed that seven turtles 20

which were untagged could be recognised from different nesting attempts making a total of 53 separate nesting females that have so far been encountered; each now allocated with an ID number for future use.

Photo ID Number

Date/s Encountered

Beach/s Encountered
GA GA GA GA GA GA GA GA GA AP AP GA GA GA AC AC GA GA GA GA GA GA AC AP GA GA AJ GA

Tag Numbers

CURHB1 CURHB2 CURHB3 CURHB4 CURHB5 CURHB6 CURHB7 CURHB8

27.10.10 27.10.10 27.10.10 2.11.10 8.12.10 3.11.10 6.11.10 10.11.10 26.11.10

0129/0130

7508/7509

CURHB9 CURHB10 CURHB11 CURHB12 CURHB13 CURHB14 CURHB15 CURHB16 CURHB17 CURHB18 CURHB19 CURHB20

12.11.10 12.11.10 15.11.10 15.11.10 30.11.10 6.12.10 6.12.10 27.10.10 6.11.10 11.11.10 22.11.10 14.01.11 28.01.11

7545/7540

E2631/2630

E1897

4770

CURHB21 CURHB22 CURHB23 CURHB24 CURHB25 CURHB26

3.2..11 18.2.11 18.2.11 31.1.11 25.10.11 30.11.11

SEY4944

SEY9580

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16.01.12 CURHB27 CURHB28 CURHB29 CURHB30 2.12.11 16.1.12 21.10.11 24.10.11 9.11.11 23.11.11 CURHB31 17.10.11 16.11.11 CURHB32 9.11.11 23.11.11 CURHB33 CURHB34 CURHB35 CURHB36 11.11.11 14.11.11 14.11.11 16.11.11 2.12.11 CURHB37 CURHB38 CURHB39 CURHB40 CURHB41 CURHB42 CURHB43 CURHB44 CURHB45 CURHB46 CURHB47 CURHB48 CURHB49 CURHB50 CURHB51 CURHB52 CURHB53 20.11.11 23.11.11 23.11.11 25.11.11 30.11.11 2.12..11 5.12.11 5.12.11 5.12.11 5.12.11 21.10.11 9.11.11 28.1.11 2.11.10 28.10.11 30.11.11 29.01.12 GA GA AL GA GA AJ GA AP GA GA AP AP GA GA GA AJ GA GA AJ GA GA GA GA AP AP GA GA GA GA AJ GA AC E2634/2635 SEY6304 645-SEY7510 SEY6302 E2626/2627 SEY9431/9432

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Table 2: Table containing the allocated code for each photo identified nesting female from October 2010 to March 2012. Underlined photo ID numbers indicate where photo ID has been successful in matching two turtles.

4. Discussion
4.1 Coco de Mer
The expansion of the GVI Curieuse island conservation project has increased the capacity of the field work quota and taken our total of Coco de Mer palms surveyed so far up to nearly 2000. In terms of analysis this is a substantial sample size and can be used to begin to understand the Curieuse Island population further. A comparison of Curieuse data with results found in the two Praslin populations (Fond Ferdinand & Vallee de Mai) shows some distinct differences. It is obvious from visual observations that Curieuse palms are smaller than the FF and VM populations; they are also slower growing and produce fewer seeds (Fleischer-Dogley et al, 2011). In a study by Savage & Ashton (1983) it was stated that male Coco de Mer palms grow taller than female trees due to a difference in age and survival. A re-interpretation of this data by Silverton (1987) states that the difference in average size may actually be a consequence of sexual dimorphism due to slower growth rates (a result of energy expended in seed growth) or that higher female mortality selects for smaller stature. None of these arguments holds for the Curieuse population which shows that female trees are on average taller than male trees by 0.7m. A study by Fleischer-Dogley et al (2011) on Curieuse palms showed a similar result of a 0.5m difference although there sample size was much smaller (N=30male & 21female). The difference between height means was not then recorded as significant but with the current results it could indeed be that females on Curieuse are significantly higher than males; a curious result! Further analysis is needed. The very low (relative to the other two populations) number of nuts recorded for the Curieuse population is concerning. If these nuts are taken for sale to tourists then Curieuse has no chance of regeneration.

4.2 Mangroves
The Curieuse Island mangroves species composition and distribution survey is now completed. The seaward trees are dominated by R.mucronata, middle mangroves are mostly A.marina and landward mangroves are mostly B.gymnorhiza. The distribution map seen in the results section is vital to demonstrate the current zonation of mangrove species; a GIS map should be generated to show a more accurate representation. This can then be used as a baseline to determine any future changes that occur. It was mentioned in the GVI 114 report that the mangroves on Curieuse to not strictly adhere to an expected zonation pattern; there are inundation channels and areas of raised ground which are colonised by palms and non-mangrove trees.

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In the past two years the mangrove area has visibly changed; there has been an influx of sediment (large sand particles) which has covered root systems and changed the topography. There are a relatively large abundance of Rhizophora mucronata seedlings and saplings which are spreading into the Avicennia marina area. Further study is needed to measure these changes and monitor the effects on the mangroves growth and composition.

4.3 Turtles
The importance of Curieuse Island as a nesting rookery for Hawksbill turtles was highlighted in the GVI 114 report. It is now estimated that 50 hawksbills (probably more) nest on Curieuse annually. This can be seen as an underestimate when considering that two nesting beaches were not included in patrols. Likewise it doesnt account for inter-island nesting habits. There is a marked increase in nesting activity since the previous (2010-2011) nesting season but inter-seasonal fluctuations in nesting activity are known to occur based on the turtle nesting interval of two or more years. Fluctuations of 70+ nests have been recorded at Bird Island (Mortimer GEF) from one nesting season to the next. Grande Anse continues to be the most prolific nesting beach and results of nesting attempts and hatchling success show it is really a good place for hawksbills to nest with the least amount of effort. A study of hatchling success was carried out on Curieuse for the 2001-02 and 2002-03 nesting seasons for a selection of nests (N=65) overall the hatchling success (hatched eggs) was approximately 60%. This differs somewhat from the current approximation although undoubtedly methods differ slightly. The overall hatchling success rate of 96% for the 2011-2012 nesting season seems to be unnaturally high when compared with past data and other islands. A study by Hitchens et al (2004) carried out on Cousine Island recorded a hatchling success rate of 70.9% (over three nesting seasons) and overall translocated nests were more successful then natural nests. This is the opposite of the Curieuse 2011-12 findings. The lack of hatchling success (4%) for the relocated nest can be attributed to it being the first to be done by GVI. Further research has now been done and should future nest relocation be needed then the results should be more promising. An estimation of hatchling success can be made without seeing the eggs laid as long as you have a mean clutch size for a sample of clutches which were counted at the laying point. The hatchling data recorded for the 2011-12 nesting season was un-planned; the results therefore can be seen as a test-run for the following season. With a method planned it should be possible to record hatchling success for each nest layed, both witnessed and un-witnessed. Hatchling success can then be compared between beaches.

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The potential for acquiring a really high quality and comprehensive data set is obtainable, it takes organisation, experience and hard work to gain a full set of nest and hatchling data and GVI staff and volunteers are able to do this.

5. Conclusion and future recommendations

It is said that protection at the nesting beaches may be the most critical component of any sea turtle conservation program ( Mortimer 2000), for this reason and the knowledge that Curieuse may be used by up to 50 or more female Hawksbills annually it is essential to monitor this population and maintain high standards of conservation. The nesting population estimation for 2011-2012 is a baseline value but by no means represents what occurs yearly. It is possible that large scale fluctuations occur in the number of females arriving at nest sites (Limpus & Nicholls, 1988) and therefore long-term monitoring is essential to document true population change (Meylan & Donnelly, 1999). With this in mind the following recommendations are made: 1) The nesting beaches continue to be monitored on a regular and consistent basis by both GVI and SNPA rangers to enable more turtles to be encountered for tag and photo identification. This will provide vital information on island fidelity and the number of clutches laid per female. Where possible beach patrols should also include Anse Badamier and Anse Mandarin to gain a more accurate idea of annual nesting population for Curieuse. 2) On the nesting beaches accessible to tourists there should be information boards detailing what is the least intrusive way of viewing nesting turtles and personnel available to enforce these guidelines. 3) Enforcement of rules with regards to tourist access onto the busiest nesting beachescurrently at low tide tourists can and do walk around to find a private beach-a constant presence by Curieuse Park rangers would further mitigate this problem. 4) During peak nesting season Curieuse should be marketed as a vital nesting habitat in order to educate tourists and create revenue. It would be beneficial to do a turtle presentation once daily at either the Doctors House or the rangers station. The sale of Curieuse Island tshirts and other merchandise as well as guided (small scale) tours on to the private nesting beaches (with experienced personnel) would provide vital revenue for the Island and justify the increased focus and resources on protecting the nesting Hawksbills. 5) Cleaning of beaches, removing debris so as to provide a clear pathway for emerging turtles and encouraging turtles to nest further in-land, away from the high water mark.

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6) A study on erosion and rate of degradation of beaches would be beneficial; to improve the understanding of nest losses and give an idea of potential future issues. Beach profiling and beach accessibility surveys should be carried out to establish a baseline.

6. References
Hitchins, P.M., Bourquin, O. And Hitchins, S. 2004. Nesting success of hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) on Cousine Island, Seychelles. J. Zool., Lond. (2004) 264, 383389. Limpus, C.J., And Nicholls, N. 1988. The Southern Oscillationregulates the annual numbers of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) breeding around northern Australia. Aust. J. Wildl. Res. 15:157-161. Meylan, A. B. And Donnelly, M.1999. Status Justification for Listing the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) as Critically Endangered on the 1996 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals. Chelonian Conservation and Biology, 1999, 3(2):200224. Mortimer, J.A. 1984. Marine Turtles in the Republic of Seychelles: Status and Management. Publication of the IUCN Conservation Library: Gland, Switzerland. 80pp.+ 4pl.

Mortimer, J.A. and Bresson, R. 1994. The hawksbill nesting population at Cousin Island, Republic of Seychelles: 1971-72 to 1991-92. Pp. 115-118, in Schroeder, B.A. & Witherington, B.E. (compilers). Proceedings of the 13th Annual Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation. NOAA Technical Memo. NMFS-SEFSC-341.

MORTIMER, J.A. 1995b. Status of the hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata. 1. Status in the Atlantic and Indian oceans and a historical perspective on global patterns of human utilization. Paper presented at The International Workshop on the Management of Marine Turtles 95, 8-10 March 1995, Tokyo, Japan.

Mortimer, J.A. 1998. Turtle & Tortoise Conservation. Project J1: Environmental Management Plan of the Seychelles. Final report to the Ministry of Environment Republic of Seychelles and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). January 1998. Volume 1 (82pp) and Volume 2 (Appendices 1-50).

Mortimer, J.A. and Bresson, R. 1999. Temporal distribution and periodicity in hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) nesting at Cousin Island, Republic of Seychelles, 1971- 1997. Chelonian Conservation and Biology 3(2): 292-298.

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Mortimer, J.A. 2004. Seychelles Marine Ecosystem Management Project (SEYMEMP): Turtle Component. GEF Final Report, Vol 1: Text, 243 pages. Vol 2: Appendix 1-11, 158 pages.

Rist, L., Kaiser-Bunbury, C.N., Fleischer-Dogley, F.,Edwards, P., Bunbury, N. And Ghazoul, J.2010 Sustainable harvesting of coco de mer, Lodoicea maldivica, in the Vallee de Mai, Seychelles. Forest Ecology and Management 260: 2224-2231.

Savage, A.J.P, Ashton, P.S.,1983. The population structure of the double coconut and some other palms. Biotropica 15: 15-25.

Silverton, J. 1987. Possible sexual dimorphism in the Double Coconut: Reinterpretation of the data of Savage and Ashton. Biotropica, Vol.19. No.3: 282-283.

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