On the beaches of Honnavar Tonka, there lies an Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Center that has been gaining momentum since 2017. The project is headed by Mr Rajesh Tandel, who states that this year they have successfully released the highest number of hatchlings to the sea. The conservation center is home to 47 nests, out of which 36 have successfully hatched and released.
Olive Ridley turtles are known for their unique nesting habits. From November to February, female turtles embark on a journey of a 1000 miles to reach the beach where they dig pits using their flippers to deposit their eggs. Each female lays approximately 100 eggs, which she carefully covers with sand before returning to the sea. This year 3000 hatchlings have been released with eggs of 11 nests remaining.
Olive Ridleys are named after their greenish color.
At this stage the team steps in to notify the forest department. With the help of volunteers the team constructs shelters, that protect the eggs from scavengers. Once the turtles break free from their shells, volunteers release them to the sea. Turtles make their way back every year to lay their eggs.
On the Vulnerable List
The International Union for Conservation of Nature has categorized these species as vulnerable which means they are at high risk of extinction in the wild. On occasions Olive Ridleys do get tangled in fishing nets and are released by the fishermen. The reason for their dwindling numbers are attributed to poaching, pollution and global warming.
A Win Win Situation
There is growing demand on the eco tourism sector who have to cater to the demands of nature lovers wanting to witness such events. The Fishing community have gained recognition from Fisheries Department and Ecologists. The Turtles Returning every year is a yardstick that measures the success of the conservation. Special Thanks to :
Mr Rajesh Tandel (Ph No 6361027911) Mr Ramesh Tandel All the Volunteers of the Conservation
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