In an unprecedented move, the Mexican government began evacuating sea turtle eggs from beaches on Wednesday ahead of Hurricane Beryl’s approach. The storm, currently off the coast of Jamaica, is expected to make landfall south of Cancun by late Thursday or early Friday.

Past failures to adequately prepare for hurricanes, such as during Hurricane Otis in October which devastated Acapulco, have prompted officials to take extreme measures this time. Biologist Graciela Tiburcio, a leading sea turtle expert, acknowledged the risks involved but emphasized the necessity of the intervention. “It’s not the best thing to do, but we are facing an emergency in which if they don’t take them out, they all could be lost,” she stated.

Government workers are carefully transferring carey sea turtle eggs, covered with sand, to safer locations using coolers. Additionally, sand-bag barriers are being constructed to protect nests from the expected storm surge and strong waves. Despite concerns that relocating the eggs might reduce hatching success rates, the potential loss of entire nests due to the hurricane has driven the decision.

Several sea turtle species nest on beaches around Cancun, laying their eggs in the sand where hatchlings emerge and head to the sea. Normally, nests are left undisturbed to ensure the ideal temperature for hatching and to allow hatchlings to use natural beach light for orientation. However, Beryl’s anticipated waves could wash away the nests, making the relocation a necessary precaution.

The Cancun municipal environment department reported on social media that over 10,000 eggs from 93 nests had been dug up. Although the department did not specify the new locations for the eggs, their priority is to safeguard these protected species.

In addition to the turtle eggs, evacuation efforts are also underway for human residents in vulnerable areas. In the fishing village of Punta Allen, located south of Tulum, authorities are urging the 700 inhabitants to evacuate. Despite these efforts, many residents are reluctant to leave due to financial concerns and fear of losing their possessions.

The distrust towards government disaster preparedness is a significant issue, with many recalling the inadequate response during past hurricanes. Acapulco is still recovering from Hurricane Otis, which left at least 52 dead and caused extensive damage.

As Hurricane Beryl approaches, Mexico’s proactive measures aim to mitigate the impact on both human and wildlife populations.