Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Mar 18: Efforts to protect Olive Ridley turtle eggs and safely release hatchlings into the sea are underway across various beaches in Mangaluru this season.

Officials said that Olive Ridley turtles had arrived on the coast in January and laid eggs, which were later secured at eight different locations. The eggs were carefully protected by forest department staff at beaches in Bengre, Idya and Sasihithlu using fenced enclosures.

After an incubation period of around 50 to 55 days, the eggs began to hatch. So far, hatchlings have emerged from four nests and have been safely released into the sea, said Deputy Conservator of Forests Anthony Mariappa.

Authorities noted that focused conservation efforts have been undertaken over the past two years in Mangaluru to protect sea turtles. These initiatives include safeguarding eggs laid on beaches and ensuring the safe journey of hatchlings back to the ocean.