Nearly 4 Lakh Olive Ridley Hatchlings Released in Andhra

During the 2024–25 nesting season, nearly 4 lakh Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings were released into the Bay of Bengal along the north Andhra coast.

These hatchlings came from 3,933 nests recorded in the region, with a total of 4,37,817 eggs collected and protected in 31 hatcheries.

Statewide, 6,662 nests were identified, yielding 6,89,157 eggs, which were protected in 73 hatcheries.

The successful release of 6,02,374 hatchlings into the sea highlights the significant conservation efforts undertaken by the forest department and its partners.

The new nesting season has already begun, with Srikakulam district reporting five nestings so far.

Olive Ridley turtles are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN and enjoy the highest level of protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

The 344-km coastline of Andhra Pradesh serves as an important nesting ground for these turtles.

However, threats such as bycatch in fishing operations, predation, coastal development, artificial lighting, marine pollution, and climate change pose significant challenges to their conservation.