Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jan 21: In a unique occurrence, eggs of Olive Ridley sea turtles, known for laying their eggs on sea beaches, have been found on the beaches of Mangaluru. This marks the first instance of such a trend observed in any beach in Dakshina Kannada district.

Forest department officials have identified Olive Ridley turtle eggs on three beaches near Suratkal and have taken measures to protect them. While the eggs were discovered in Kundapur beach earlier, this marks the first instance of their presence in Mangaluru's city beaches. To monitor and protect the turtles, three patrol teams were formed by the forest department this year.

Out of the three locations where the turtles have laid eggs, two are susceptible to high-velocity waves, prompting the teams to relocate them to safer areas. Olive Ridley turtles are known for their shy and slow-moving nature, often arriving at beach areas during midnight or early morning. After laying eggs, they return to the sea, and surprisingly, never return to the area where they laid the eggs. The eggs hatch after 45 days, and the hatchlings make their way to the sea.

The forest department's patrol team has taken proactive measures to protect the eggs from strong waves and potential infection by relocating them to safer areas beneath the sand. To raise awareness among locals about Olive Ridley turtle eggs, the department has announced a prize for individuals informing them of such discoveries.

Typically, one turtle lays around 100 eggs, with the egg-laying season occurring in November and December. Due to changes in weather patterns, this year's discoveries include eggs found in December and January.