Saving Turtles

According to some statistics from1996 to 1999, almost one hundred thousand sea turtles were hatched and released to the sea. The conservation of marine wildlife including the turtle is becoming increasing important to the visitor and the local indigenous population, this growing interest is manifest in the field of turtles everywhere in the world. While an infinitesimal minority of carnivores are bent on destroying the disappearing breed of marine turtles for their flesh and shell, a preponderant majority of people in many countries are keen to protect them and provide sanctuaries. We know that marine turtles of many varieties were roaming the oceans for about 190 million years and of this species that once roamed the sea freely only eight of these ancient reptiles are found living today. Of the eight Sri Lanka is fortunate as five species regularly visit to nest in the South Western and South Eastern sandy beaches of the island from Induruwa to Yala and Kandakuliya in the Puttalam district. Although even today a large number of visiting turtles are caught by local fishermen for flesh and shells each year to satisfy a lucrative market. All turtles and their products are fully protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. Anyone found guilty of committing an offence will be liable for a jail sentence and fines - sea turtles are protected under International Law and Sri Lanka has barred international trade in sea turtle products.

Further conservation of the Turtles... Click Here