When did the Olive Ridley turtle nesting begin at Gahirmatha beach?

Sporadic nesting of Olive Ridley turtles began at Gahirmatha beach over the past three days.

What measures are in place to protect Olive Ridley turtle eggs?

Hatcheries secured with plastic nets have been set up, and forest guards collect and transfer eggs from natural pits to these protected areas.

How does the government protect Olive Ridley turtles from fishing?

A seven-month ban on fishing activities is enforced from November 1 to May 31, and illegal fishing within the sanctuary results in arrests and vessel seizures.

Home / Environment / Olive Ridley Turtles Begin Nesting at World's Largest Rookery

Olive Ridley Turtles Begin Nesting at World's Largest Rookery

25 Feb

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Summary

Sporadic nesting of Olive Ridley turtles has commenced at Gahirmatha beach.
Authorities have established hatcheries to protect turtle eggs from predators.
Fishing ban and patrols are in effect to safeguard the endangered species.

Olive Ridley Turtles Begin Nesting at World's Largest Rookery

Sporadic nesting of the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles has commenced at Gahirmatha beach, recognized as the world's largest rookery. Over the past three days, approximately 40 turtles have laid eggs on the Nasi-1 and Nasi-2 islands within the Gahirmatha marine sanctuary. Forest officials are maintaining a high alert as more turtles are anticipated to arrive for mass nesting, which may begin within two to three weeks.

To ensure the safety of the eggs, forest officials have established hatcheries at Aagarnasi, Pentha, Madali, and Babubali beaches. These facilities are secured with plastic nets to prevent predators like dogs, jackals, wild boars, and birds from accessing the eggs. The department is actively collecting eggs from natural pits and transferring them to these protected hatcheries. This year's early sporadic nesting suggests that mass nesting, known as 'arribada,' could occur sooner than usual.