A record of 382 sea turtle nests have been recorded on all sandy beaches across the Sovereign Base Areas this year according to environmental experts. According to a press release, the number dwarfs last year's second highest total of 282, highlighting 'the relentless work undertaken by SBA Administration officials to safeguard nests is now coming to fruition.' It is added that the green and loggerhead turtles are both listed as protected species, with only one in 1,000 hatchlings making it to adulthood. 'This shocking statistic', according to the Senior Environmental and Policy Officer for the SBAA, Alexia Perdiou, makes it even more important that the most effective protection measures are taken. Among other things, Perdiou said that between 1994 and 2011, an average of only 30 turtle nests were discovered on SBA beaches, noting that 'the Bases are committed to protecting the turtles under the Protection and Management of Nature and Wildlife Ordinance'. She further stated that the steep increase in tu rtle nests has been the result of a consistent, systematic 'hands-off' approach, together with enforcement efforts to minimise illegal, damaging activities on nesting beaches. 'The fact that most sandy beaches within the Bases are free from development and heavy lights, has also contributed to preserving this important species', she mentioned. Perdiou reminded that the disturbance of nests by humans - driving on beaches, parties with barbeques and strong lights - is punishable with up to pound 17,000 in fines, or up to three years imprisonment and it would seem this has proven to be a deterrent. 'The intention is to continue conservation efforts, improve them where necessary and enhance the joint work which has led to these amazing results', Perdiou stated. It is mentioned that British Forces Cyprus (BFC) are stationed across military bases located within the Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) within the Island of Cyprus. These military are in Akrotiri, Episkopi and Dhekelia all located within the wider Overseas Territory that is the SBAs. Source: Cyprus News Agency