Olive Ridley hatchlings

Turtles need safe shores not selfies by visitors

- USHA PERI @ Vizag

THE sight of tiny olive ridley turtle hatchlings making their way to the vast ocean is a truly captivating experience. People naturally want to witness and even interact with these vulnerable creatures. However, this desire for interaction, if not guided by knowledge and care, can inadvertently harm these delicate creatures.

This season, Andhra Pradesh's coastlines have seen a mix of challenges and hope for the olive ridley turtles. Despite a significant number of turtle deaths reported earlier in the season, these resilient creatures have continued to come ashore to lay their eggs. As hatchlings emerge, the need for careful handling and proper release protocols has become paramount.