(September 23, 2007)--More than 60,000 turtles were released as part of a program to preserve endangered species in Ixtapilla, Mexico on Saturday, under the watchful eye of dozens of children and adults.

Local authorities, indigenous people from Ixtapilla, and Mexican Army and Navy carry out the work of preserving and avoiding the killing and traffic of the Golfina or Olive Ridley species turtles.

Francisco Luna said that this year authorities have rescued 20,000 turtle's eggs and have detained 18 people accused of traffic of endangered species.

Local and foreign tourists could touch and release the little turtles, and were surprised when adult turtles left the sea and also appeared on the beach.

Mexico is a major nesting area for several species of sea turtles, which are protected by law.

Harvesting or selling their eggs is a criminal offense, punishable by up to nine years in prison and fines.

Still each year, officials seize thousands of turtle eggs at Mexican markets.

The eggs are considered a delicacy.

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