World Status, Exploitation and Trade - WIDECAST

COSTA RICAEXPLOITATIONCommodity Cornelius (1981,1986) notes that consumption of sea turtlemeat is to some extent culturally unacceptable on the Pacific coast; thereis thus no tradition of large scale local harvest of adults for meat. Eggshave, however, been taken on a large scale, and this practice doubtlesscontinues despite being illegal. The great majority of eggs harvested wouldcertainly have been Olive Ridley (most taken at Ostional in Guanacaste),although other species are taken when encountered. Eggs not only wereconsumed locally but also supplied markets in the central highlands of thecountry (Cornelius, 1981 and 1986).There is reportedly little if any organised fishery of Hawksbills along thePacific coast of Central America, mainly because the species is now toorare. Cornelius (1986) notes, however, that lacquered shells (usually ofjuveniles) are often seen hanging on walls of bars and restaurants intourist and fishing villages.Hunting intensity Cornelius (1981) noted that no permits had beengranted, or possibly requested, for the capture of sea turtles on thePacific coast since 1977.Domestic trade As noted above, eggs from the Pacific coast have suppliedinland markets; it is likely that this practice continues.International trade See COSTA RICA: CARIBBEAN above.LEGISLATIONLey de Caza y Pesca Maritima (Ley No. 190), 28 September 1984.Allows limited trade in meat of C. mydas . Costa Rica currently has anannual quota of 1000 green sea turtles.Prohibits hunting and commerce in all other sea turtles.152