Archive · 19 Dec 2025
Olive Ridley Turtles Begin Mating Season
The Olive Ridley turtles have started their mating season near the Rushikulya river in Odisha.
The forest department is increasing patrols to keep poachers away.
After mating, the female turtles will lay eggs in the sand, and the baby turtles will hatch after about 45-50 days.
Last year, a record number of turtles laid eggs, and officials hope for a similar turnout this year.
The government has banned fishing near the coast to protect the turtles, and fishermen are asking for more compensation during this ban.
Olive Ridley turtles have begun mating near Rushikulya river mouth in Ganjam district.
Forest department has increased patrolling to protect turtles from poachers.
Mass nesting is expected in the third week of February, 45 days after mating.
Last year, over 9.04 lakh turtles laid eggs in two phases of mass nesting.
Government has banned fishing within 20 km of the coast from November 1 to May 31.
- Who
- Olive Ridley turtles, Forest Department, Fishermen
- What
- Mating season begins, patrolling intensified, fishing ban enforced
- When
- Mating season begins in December, mass nesting expected in February
- Where
- Rushikulya river mouth, Ganjam district, Odisha
- Why
- To protect turtles from poachers and ensure successful nesting
- Location
- Rushikulya river mouth, Ganjam district
- Mating Season
- Begins in December
- Nesting Period
- 45 days after mating
- Mass Nesting
- Expected in third week of February
- Last Year's Nesting
- Over 9.04 lakh turtles laid eggs
- Fishing Ban
- November 1 to May 31 within 20 km of coast
- Compensation Demand
- Fishermen seek Rs 30,000 instead of Rs 15,000