Turtle Hatchery Sri Lanka Project
A Hidden Gem in Kosgoda since 1978
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Here are some fascinating facts about sea turtles and turtle hatcheries:
Sea Turtles:
- Sea turtles outlived the dinosaurs. They evolved 110 million years ago and have changed very little since.
- You can tell sea turtle species apart by the color, shape, and pattern of their shells (called scutes) and the pattern of the scales on their faces.
- The temperature of the sand during the middle portion of the 45-65 days that the sea turtle eggs incubate will determine whether the egg hatches a boy or a girl turtle.
- Only 1 in 1,000 turtles will make it to adulthood.
- Sea turtles are deep divers and can stay underwater for long periods of time.
- Sea turtles make incredibly long migrations between feeding and breeding areas.
Turtle Hatcheries:
- Turtle hatcheries are not sanctuaries, zoos, rescue or rehabilitation centres. They are used only when natural nesting conditions are threatened, such as by flooding, erosion, predation or heavy poaching.
- The surface of the hatchery site should be located well above the level of the highest spring tides to prevent underground flooding of the eggs.
- The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Center is the oldest Conservation and Research project started in Sri Lanka in early 1978.
- The Hatchery at SEE Turtles is a conservation-focused incubator, with the aim to help new ideas and efforts in ways that support conservation and communities by providing mentoring, expertise, funding, and more.
If you are a nature lover and the sea turtles especially. You can take part in this by volunteering to the project. Read More
Kosgoda in Sri Lanka situated along the coastline of Sri Lanka. The Turtle Hatchery remains as a beacon of hope and conservation for one of nature’s most fascinating creatures. This article will take you to the depth of this amazing project. This not only going to give you the insight about the project itself, also you will get to know about the people who put-up this as a hope and the biodiversity attached concern attached to the project. A lesson to learn and preserve for life time. The most fascinating experience to anyone visiting Sri Lanka.
The Enchanting World of Sea Turtle
Before we delve in the hatchery, let us understand why sea turtle are so captivating. The turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. These ancient mariners have been voyaging across the oceans for over 100 million years. Yes! They maintain healthy seagrass beds to balancing jelly fish population as you should know.
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: A Sanctuary for Survival
The Beginning of a Conservation Legacy : Turtle Hatchery Sri Lanka Project
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery began in the year 1988 due to an alarming situation that as declining in turtle population due to poaching and habitat destruction. It has since become a sanctuary, focusing on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtle when right time arrives.
A Closer Look at the Hatchery’s Mission
Keeping Turtle Eggs Safe: Every night, the people at the hatchery walk along the beach. They look for turtle eggs and make sure they are safe from people who might take them. This helps keep the eggs secure until they hatch.
Hatching Eggs and Helping Baby Turtles: The hatchery takes care of the turtle eggs in a special place where they can hatch safely. After the baby turtles come out of their eggs, they are gently released into the sea. This gives them a better chance to survive and grow up.
Taking Care of Hurt Turtles: Sometimes, turtles get hurt or sick. The hatchery is like a hospital for these turtles. They get the care and rest they need to get better. Once they are healthy again, they go back to live in the ocean.
Teaching People about Turtles: The hatchery is also a place where visitors, both from Sri Lanka and from other countries, can learn about turtles and why it’s important to protect them. They teach people how we can all help save turtle
A Day at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: An Itinerary for Visitors
Visiting the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery in Sri Lanka is an unforgettable experience. Here’s how you can spend a day immersing yourself in the world of sea turtles and participating in their conservation.
Morning
8:00 AM – Arrival and Welcome Briefing
- Start your day with a warm welcome from the hatchery staff.
- Attend a short briefing about the hatchery’s mission and the day’s activities.
8:30 AM – Guided Tour of the Facility
- Walk through the hatchery with a knowledgeable guide.
- Learn about different turtle species and their life cycles.
- Visit the incubation areas where eggs are carefully monitored.
9:30 AM – Feeding Time
- Witness the feeding of resident turtles, including the injured ones in rehabilitation.
- Learn about their dietary needs and how nutrition is a key part of their care.
Midday
11:00 AM – Interactive Learning Session
- Participate in an educational workshop about sea turtle conservation.
- Discover the global and local challenges these creatures face.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
- Enjoy a meal at a local eatery nearby. Many places offer fresh, locally-sourced seafood and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Afternoon
1:00 PM – Nest Inspection and Egg Protection Activity
- Join the staff in inspecting the beach for new nests.
- Learn how to safely relocate eggs to the hatchery for protection.
2:30 PM – Beach Cleanup Drive
- Take part in a beach cleanup initiative.
- Understand the impact of pollution on sea turtles and marine life.
4:00 PM – Turtle Release (Subject to Timing and Availability)
- Experience the thrill of releasing hatchlings into the ocean.
- Learn about the best practices and significance of this process.
Evening
5:30 PM – Sunset Watching and Reflection
- Relax on the beach and enjoy a stunning Sri Lankan sunset.
- Reflect on the day’s experiences and the importance of conservation efforts.
6:00 PM – Departure
- End your day at the hatchery and return to your accommodation with memories and knowledge to cherish and share.
Additional Activities and Interesting Experiences
- Photography Opportunity: Capture the beauty of these creatures and their habitat. Remember to use a camera without a flash to avoid disturbing the turtles.
- Adopt a Turtle: Some hatcheries offer programs where you can “adopt” a turtle to support its care and conservation.
- Local Interaction: Engage with the local community and learn about their relationship with sea turtles and the ocean.
- Souvenir Shopping: Visit the hatchery’s gift shop for unique souvenirs that support the hatchery’s mission.
Important Reminders for Visitors
- Respect the Animals: Always follow guidelines for interacting with turtles.
- Eco-friendly Practices: Be mindful of your environmental impact during your visit.
- Health and Safety: Follow any health and safety measures put in place by the hatchery, especially when handling turtles or eggs.
A visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is not just a day trip; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to a meaningful cause, and carry forward the message of conservation. It’s an experience that promises to be as educational as it is inspiring, suitable for individuals, families, and travelers of all ages.
The entry fee for the Kosgoda Turtle Sanctuary for a tourist is 500 LKR. Additionally, if you wish to participate in the release of baby turtles, which usually happens in the evening, it costs an extra 1000 LKR. Please note that prices may vary and it’s always a good idea to check the official site or contact the sanctuary directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Enjoy your visit! 🐢
Visitors to the hatchery can enjoy guided tours, witness hatchling releases, and even participate in conservation activities. The experience is not just about seeing turtles but understanding their journey and the efforts to protect them.
The Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a vital conservation effort, safeguarding the future of sea turtles and oceans alike. As a visitor, you’re not just a spectator but a participant in a greater story of survival and hope.
