Denovan Hernández Lewis

Sea Turtle Consumer Turned Protector

A resident of Caribbean Costa Rican community of Limón, it was a common tradition for Denovan’s family to eat leatherback turtle eggs and meat. Denovan had no idea about the endangered status of leatherback sea turtles and how their actions were affecting the ecosystem.

After having the opportunity to learn about leatherbacks and work directly with them, Denovan was amazed by the size of these creatures, their behaviors, and important role in the ecosystem.

Denovan is now trying to stop the sale of sea turtle eggs and meat in his community. Realizing that change starts at home, he is also taking on the challenge of teaching his family and friends about leatherbacks, to change the cultural practice of consuming sea turtle products.

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