The Beach and Patara National Park

Patara national park is a key biodiversity area, rich in birdlife and it is a nesting beach of the endangered loggerhead turtle (caretta caretta). The beach has been protected against development because of the sea turtles, they are nearing extinction. Their nesting site has to be protected as these animals has to return the same beach where they opened their eyes. The beach is closed after sunset from May to October to give the turtles peace in which to lay their eggs. Caretta Carettas' lifespan is between 47 - 65 years and they are mature to become reproductive when they are 17 - 33 years old. These animals are travelling up to 1000 km to lay their eggs. On this journey they have very important duty, they are taking planktons with them and protect diversity of oceans. At Patara Beach during turtle season group of biologist are there at nights to spot where turtles laid the eggs and take to protection.

There are many different species are living besides sea turtles in Patara . Many birds are living araound so it is also a place for bird-watchers. Two rare birds found in the area are the wall creeper and the huge Smyrna kingfisher. These kingfishers are found in eucalyptus plantations near water. There are also group of Dolphins living near the sea and sometimes they can be seen from the Patara Beach.