The Olive Ridley turtles of Odisha have made headlines as their annual mass hatching event takes place at Rushikulya rookery, near Ganjam district. This region, located on the coast of Odisha, India, is globally recognized as the largest mass nesting site for these sea turtles, overshadowing even the coasts of Mexico and Costa Rica.
The Unique Characteristics of Olive Ridley Turtles
Known as the smallest yet most abundant species among all sea turtles found worldwide, Olive Ridley turtles are readily distinguished by their olive-colored carapaces. Their diet primarily consists of various marine-based fauna, affirming their status as natural carnivores. Despite their small size, they execute extraordinary migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers between feeding and mating grounds each year.
Understanding the Habitat and Migration Patterns
These turtles are most commonly sighted in the warm waters of three main oceans – the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Ocean. Their immense journey from feeding to mating grounds spans across many regions, demonstrating their incredible endurance and navigational skills.
Arribada: A Remarkable Natural Event
Olive Ridley turtles are global celebrities when it comes to their unique mass nesting phenomenon, widely known as the Arribada. During this event, thousands of female turtles simultaneously land on the same beach to lay eggs. This impressive spectacle lasts for five to seven days, with each turtle creating a conical nest about one and a half feet deep using their hind flippers.
Threats to Olive Ridley Turtles
Unfortunately, Olive Ridley turtles are under constant threat due to poaching activities targeting their meat, shells and leather, as well as their eggs. However, the most potent threat is the unintentional killing of these turtles resulting from entanglement in trawl nets and gill nets. Unregulated fishing activities during their mating season, particularly around nesting beaches, have significantly contributed to this issue.
Protection Status of Olive Ridley Turtles
Faced with an array of threats, Olive Ridley turtles have been classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. International trade of these turtles is regulated under Appendix I of CITES. Within India, they are protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Conservation Efforts: A Ray of Hope
In a bid to mitigate the accidental killings, the Odisha government in India has mandated the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) for trawls. These specialized nets, equipped with an exit cover, allow the turtles to escape while still retaining the intended marine catch. Such conservationist policies reflect the commitment to safeguard these sea creatures and ensure the continuation of their unique global spectacle.