This dataset contains Argos satellite telemetry for 10 juvenile green turtles (Chelonia mydas) tracked from Gorgona National Natural Park (GNNP), Colombian Pacific (2009–2012). Data were used in an associated manuscript to show evidence that nine individuals exhibited residency behavior. One turtle left the study area, migrating south. Findings assist in assessing the efficacy of GNNP in protecting sensitive resident species and, moreover, come at a pivotal time, when plans for constructing a military complex within GNNP are underway. Our study highlights that GNNP protects critical habitats for imperiled species and underscores the need for thoughtful consideration of future developments near sensitive PAs.

Green turtles were captured at La Azufrada and Play Blanca reefs between 20:00 and 21:00 h. Two to five persons entered the water and searched for turtles via snorkeling, performing opportunistic hand captures over the reefs. Captured turtles were taken to shore where satellite transmitters were attached and measurements were taken including curved carapace length (CCL; ±0.5 cm, measured from the nuchal notch to posterior-most tip of carapace with a forester’s caliper) and weight (±0.5 kg, measured using a spring scale). Transmitters were affixed with antennae forward to the highest point of each turtle’s carapace using a quick-setting epoxy (Anchorfix II, Sika) that hardened within ~30 min. To maximize transmitter retention time, shell surfaces were treated lightly with sandpaper and then wiped with an alcohol solution until clean of algae and other irregularities. Captured turtles were kept under a shade structure at the GNP Henry von Prahl Research Station and closely monitored to avoid overheating. All turtles were released from the shore adjacent to the reef within 2 h of capture. 

From 2009 to 2012, a total of 10 transmitters (either a Wildlife Computers SPOT-293A or Sirtrack SPOT 5) were deployed onto a subset of green turtles captured during June–October surveys in the GNP. Transmitters provided location data via the Argos satellite constellation and were programmed (i.e., duty cycled) to alternate between on and off status at 6-h intervals, thereby providing transmissions for 12 h per day. Turtle locations were determined with the Argos positioning system, which categorized each satellite fix into one of six location classes (LCs) representing estimated accuracy: 3, 2, 1, 0, A, and B. Accuracy is assumed to be <150 m for LC 3, 150–350 m for LC 2, 351–1000 m for LC 1, and >1000 m for LC 0. No accuracy estimation is provided for LC A or LC B. A seventh class, LC Z, indicates a poor/erroneous fix.

Raw Argos locations are provided herein.