Canacona: As the olive ridley turtle nesting season draws to a close, a total of 6,173 hatchlings have been released into the sea from the nurseries in Agonda and Galgibaga. The Agonda nursery, which protected 51 nests, saw the release of 4,454 hatchlings, while the Galgibaga hatchery contributed 1,719 hatchlings from 19 turtle pits.
Nesting Season Summary
This year, the number of eggs laid and hatchlings released was significantly lower compared to the previous season. According to Rajesh Naik, Range Forest Officer (RFO) of the South marine range for turtle hatcheries, the 2024-2025 season produced 9,841 hatchlings from both locations. Last year, there were 188 turtle nests with a total of 19,191 eggs, whereas this season recorded only 70 olive ridley nests, protecting 7,693 eggs.
While all 19 turtle pits at Galgibaga have successfully hatched, only one nest from Agonda remains unhatched. Naik noted that it is not necessary for all turtles to appear every year for egg-laying, but he remains hopeful for a better season next year. He attributed the reduced egg production to climatic conditions.
Season Timeline
The current nesting season began in December 2025, with the first turtle appearing at the Agonda hatchery on December 11, while Galgibaga received its first visitor on December 30. The olive ridley turtle season in Goa typically starts in November-December and ends in April or late May. However, Naik mentioned that turtles may even arrive in May to lay eggs, although such late nests may not be successful as the incubation period coincides with the monsoon.
Overall, the season saw fewer nests and hatchlings compared to last year, but conservation efforts continue to protect these endangered marine creatures.
