Olive Ridley Turtles Throng Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary In Odisha For Mass Nesting

Kendrapada: The arrival of Olive Ridley sea turtles in the Gahirmatha marine sanctuary has marked the commencement of the annual mating rituals at the world’s largest rookery located in Odisha’s Kendrapada district.

The forest range officer of Gahirmatha marine sanctuary, Pradosh Moharana was quoted by TNIE as saying that Olive Ridley sea turtles typically initiate their mating activities in the sea near their preferred nesting coast in December.

In order to ensure the safety of the mating turtles, the authorities have implemented a fishing ban in the marine sanctuary from November 1 to May 31, covering a sea stretch up to 20 kilometres from the Gahirmatha coastline.

Enforcement measures have already led to the arrest of 70 fishermen and the seizure of four fishing trawlers for illegal activities in the marine sanctuary since November 1.

Following effective surveillance for the protection of the turtles last year, altogether 5,12,175 turtles had laid eggs from March 9 to 13, 2023, forest officers said.