The use of fluorescent powdered pigments as a tracking technique for hatchling turtles in Belize

Abstract

Hatchling freshwater turtles face significant challenges during early life stages, including predation, desiccation, and habitat loss. Despite their ecological importance, little is known about their movements and habitat preferences due to their cryptic behaviour and small size. In this study, we utilized fluorescent powder tracking, a non-invasive method, to investigate the spatial ecology of hatchling turtles in southern Belize. Forty-seven hatchlings from five species (Kinosternon acutum, K. leucostomum, Trachemys venusta, Claudius angustatus, and Chelydra rossignonii) were tracked across old-growth rainforest and pine savanna habitats. Hatchlings exhibited movement distances ranging from 3–1987 cm, with most activity concentrated in high-elevation rainforest, particularly in ephemeral aquatic habitats such as puddles and ditches. Species-specific preferences were observed, aligning with adult habitat use. Notably, the longest movement was recorded for a C. rossignonii individual, which travelled over 19 m in two days. Significant differences in habitat use were found between ephemeral, permanent, and upland microhabitats, highlighting the importance of temporary aquatic environments during the rainy season. The study confirmed the effectiveness of fluorescent powder tracking as a low-cost, low-impact tool for monitoring hatchling turtles. Despite potential concerns about increased visibility to predators, only one potential predation event occurred during tracking. These findings emphasize the critical role of ephemeral habitats in supporting hatchling survival and provide valuable insights for conservation planning. By addressing a key knowledge gap, this research supports efforts to protect threatened freshwater turtle species in Belize’s rapidly changing ecosystems.