Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: The first batch of Olive Ridley hatchlings of the season in South Goa was released into the Arabian Sea at Agonda beach, with 72 baby turtles making their way to the waters from the Agonda Turtle Rehabilitation Centre (TRC).
The hatchlings emerged from the first nest secured this season under the South Goa Marine Range (SGMR). However, of the 145 eggs relocated and protected in Pit No. 1 at Agonda TRC, only 72 successfully hatched, while 73 eggs were found rotten or failed to hatch — reflecting a mortality rate of nearly 50 per cent and raising fresh concerns among environmentalists over nesting site protection.
According to officials, the eggs were originally laid on the beach on December 11 last year and were later carefully shifted to a protected pit at the Agonda TRC. After an incubation period of approximately 61 days, the hatchlings emerged and were released into the sea under supervision.
The South Goa Marine Range operates two Turtle Rehabilitation Centres — one at its headquarters in Galgibaga and another at Agonda, a prominent tourist beach in Canacona taluka.
Currently, SGMR is protecting a total of 34 turtle nests comprising 3,766 eggs. Agonda TRC accounts for the highest number with 24 pits safeguarding 2,645 eggs, while Galgibaga TRC has 10 pits protecting 1,121 eggs.
With the hatching of the first pit at Agonda, the total number now stands at 33 active pits holding 3,621 eggs across both centres.
Forest officials stated that monitoring of the remaining nests is ongoing as the turtle nesting season progresses.
