The Last Turtle

The Last Turtle is a documentary film centered around the work of the Dominica Sea Turtle Conservation Organisation (DomSeTCO). The team, led by the film's narrator, a dedicated sea turtle conservationist, embarks on a journey to address the main threats to Dominica's endangered sea turtle populations: illegal poaching, plastic pollution, and climate change. Dominica, known as the 'Nature Island', is home to two main species of sea turtles: the Hawksbill and the Green turtle. The documentary film delves into the efforts of the conservation team as they strive to protect the nesting sites of these species, ensuring their survival against the backdrop of increasing human activities and natural threats. As the film begins, the viewer is introduced to the rugged and enchanting landscape of Dominica, a land where lush rainforests meet crystal-clear waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life. However, beneath the surface lies a more pressing issue - the vulnerability of sea turtles to human activities and environmental degradation. The main threat to sea turtles is poaching. Poachers are driven by the desire to harvest shells, meat, and other body parts for the black market. In Dominica, the Hawksbill sea turtle, prized for its shell, is highly sought after. The conservation team is tasked with monitoring turtle nesting sites and preventing poachers from disrupting the natural process. This requires meticulous observation, communication, and coordination with local communities and law enforcement agencies. As the team navigates their assigned task, they also come across plastic pollution - one of the most significant and enduring threats to sea turtles. Non-biodegradable waste, including plastic bags, bottles, and strapping bands, poses a constant danger to these creatures. Sea turtles often mistake this waste for food or shelter, leading to fatal outcomes. The conservation team's efforts to clean up trash from the coastline and waterways are an essential step towards mitigating this issue. Climate change is another significant threat to sea turtles. Rising global temperatures lead to changes in sea levels, ocean currents, and coral bleaching, affecting marine ecosystems and the turtles that depend on them. The team documents the devastating effects of climate change on coral reefs, essential habitats for juvenile sea turtles. With the stakes high, the team is driven to find innovative solutions that can help turtles adapt to a rapidly changing environment. Throughout the film, the viewer is immersed in the daily life of the conservation team, witnessing the challenges and triumphs they face in their mission to protect the sea turtles. The team's interactions with local communities are a highlight of the documentary, showcasing the complex relationships between humans and wildlife. Many locals, having grown up on the island, possess deep respect for sea turtles and recognize the importance of conservation. However, others, driven by economic necessity or lack of awareness, contribute to the problems faced by the conservation team. The Last Turtle is an uplifting and eye-opening portrayal of a vital environmental issue, highlighting the resilience of dedicated individuals who are fighting an uphill battle to ensure the survival of endangered sea turtles. By shedding light on the conservation efforts of DomSeTCO and the struggles faced by sea turtles in Dominica, the film fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human activities and environmental degradation. It encourages viewers to contemplate their own roles in helping to protect these magnificent creatures and the marine ecosystems they inhabit.