turtle nesting sites

Forest ranger trainees from Madhya Pradesh witnessed the mass hatching of Olive Ridley turtles at the Rushikulya rookery. The 34 officers gained hands-on knowledge in wildlife conservation and forest management during their visit. They observed thousands of hatchlings emerging and beginning their journey to the sea, a significant event following the recent mass nesting period.

Severe coastal erosion has significantly reduced nesting beaches on Nasi-1 and Nasi-2 islands in Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, delaying the mass nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles. While Rushikulya beach saw over 2 lakh turtles, Gahirmatha's absence baffles researchers. Nasi-1 has shrunk from 1.5 km to 100m, and Nasi-2 from 2 km to 300m, with beaches becoming too steep for nesting.

While most Indian beaches prohibit vehicles due to safety and environmental concerns, Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach in Kerala offers a rare exception. This unique location allows regulated beach driving thanks to its specific geographical features, though access remains conditional on various factors like tides and weather.

Zeenat Aman voiced deep concern over Goa's polluted beaches, sharing a TOI report and urging CM Sawant to prioritize environmental protection. Recounting a moving experience at a turtle nesting site, she highlighted the fragility of coastal ecosystems and the threats faced by hatchlings, calling for immediate action to preserve Goa's natural beauty.

A rare sight at Puri's Blue Flag beach saw Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings heading towards the sea, captured by sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik. This event highlights Odisha's crucial role in global turtle conservation, with areas like Gahirmatha hosting massive nesting events. The sighting underscores the continuity of Odisha's coastal ecosystem and the importance of protecting these vulnerable creatures.

A rare sight at Puri's Blue Flag beach saw Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings heading towards the sea, captured by sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik. This event highlights Odisha's crucial role in global turtle conservation, with areas like Gahirmatha hosting massive nesting events. The sighting underscores the continuity of Odisha's coastal ecosystem and the importance of protecting these vulnerable creatures.