Why do turtles return to the same beach to lay eggs?

Turtles return to the same beach to lay their eggs because they imprint on its unique characteristics as hatchlings. Scientists believe they use Earth’s magnetic field as a navigational guide, along with visual and chemical cues. This homing behaviour ensures they nest in an environment similar to where they successfully hatched. Returning to familiar beaches also reduces competition with other species and increases the likelihood of their offspring surviving. This remarkable behaviour is vital for their reproductive success.