Historical exploitation of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) on Aldabra Atoll (Seychelles) led to a dramatic decline in the numbers of nesting turtles, with the lowest numbers observed in the late 1960s. In 1968 turtle protection regulations were implemented throughout Seychelles. Aldabra Atoll was designated a special reserve in 1981 managed by the Seychelles Islands Foundation and in 1982, Aldabra became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Turtles at Aldabra have been well protected both in law and in practice with turtle nesting beaches strictly protected from poaching, development and pollution. The protection has been accompanied by consistent monitoring of turtle emergences. The successful conservation efforts have boosted the turtle population to 500-800% over a period of 40 years with an estimated 3100-5225 females nesting annually. Aldabra Atoll now holds one of the largest nesting rookeries for green turtles in the Western Indian Ocean.