Vizianagaram: The coastline of Vizianagaram district has become a crucial sanctuary for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. Every year, these marine creatures’ journey to the Bay of Bengal to lay their eggs, facing threats from human activities and natural predators. To protect them, forest officials have initiated dedicated conservation efforts.

During the nesting season, Olive Ridleys seek pollution-free beaches for egg-laying but often fall victim to fishing nets. To combat this, forest officials, alongside conservation teams, have implemented protective measures, including hatcheries in coastal villages like Tippalavalasa, Chepalakancheru, and Barripeta. These hatcheries provide a safe environment, shielding the eggs from predators such as seagulls, hawks, crows, and stray dogs.

Around ten hatcheries have been established, housing approximately 250 mother turtles. District Forest Officer R. Kondala Rao stated that a team of ten staff members is overseeing the incubation process. "We have collected around 40,000 eggs and placed them in hatcheries. So far, 500 have hatched into baby turtles, and they will be released into the Bay of Bengal soon," he said.

Each Olive Ridley lays 100 to 130 eggs before returning to sea, leaving the hatchlings to develop independently. Recognizing their vulnerability, conservationists carefully collect and transfer the eggs to hatcheries. The confluence of the Champavathi River and the Bay of Bengal is a critical nesting site, where the presence of stray dogs and birds poses a significant threat. With intervention, officials are not only protecting the eggs but also increasing the Olive Ridley population. "Our efforts are ensuring the survival of this rare species," Rao emphasized.

Forest officials are engaging local coastal communities, particularly fishermen, to raise awareness about the turtles' ecological importance. By educating locals, authorities aim to foster a supportive conservation environment. Additionally, the Tree Foundation collaborates with the forest department to enhance survival rates, resulting in more successful hatchings each year.

Conserving Olive Ridley turtles is vital for maintaining marine biodiversity. Through dedicated conservation efforts and community involvement, Vizianagaram is steadily becoming a safer haven for these endangered creatures. With continued commitment, the district sets an inspiring example of marine conservation, ensuring the Olive Ridley turtles' survival for future generations.