The annual natural spectacle of Olive Ridley turtle nesting has officially begun along Goa's coastline. The new season was heralded by the arrival of the first female turtle at Morjim beach in North Goa on the evening of December 26. The event marks the start of a critical period for conservation efforts in the state.
A Nighttime Arrival and a Precious Deposit
According to forest guards stationed at the turtle hatchery, the Olive Ridley came ashore at approximately 9:30 PM under the cover of darkness. The turtle proceeded to lay a clutch of 99 eggs on the sandy beach. Completing her vital reproductive mission, she returned to the Arabian Sea within 30 to 60 minutes.
Once the mother turtle had safely departed, volunteers from the state forest department sprang into action. They carefully collected the precious eggs and transported them to a fenced, protected hatchery adjacent to the beach. This standard procedure is crucial for safeguarding the eggs from natural predators and human-induced disturbances.
Comparing Seasons and Addressing Disturbances
A forest volunteer involved in the operation provided context for this year's start. "Last year, the first nesting at Morjim was recorded a day earlier, on December 25," they noted. The volunteer highlighted a significant ongoing challenge for turtles at Morjim: bright lights and loud music from beach shacks. These human activities can disorient both nesting females and later, emerging hatchlings.
In contrast, the quieter environment of Agonda beach in South Goa seems more favorable. Nesting there has already begun, with the season's first turtle arriving on December 11—a full 17 days earlier than the previous season. The general nesting window for Olive Ridleys in Goa spans from September to March.
Hatching Hopes and Weather Woes
The relocated eggs now enter a delicate incubation period. "Each nest has a hatching period of 45 to 52 days," explained the volunteer. "After this, we release the hatchlings into the sea."
Reflecting on the last season, the volunteer shared data that underscores the variable nature of conservation work. The 2023-24 season saw 206 nests at the protected sites, which was a decrease from the 216 nests documented the year before. Unpredictable weather was a major factor. "The 2024-25 season was affected by unexpected rainfall in February and March, which can impact nesting success," they said.
Looking ahead, conservationists are optimistic. "Hopefully, in the 2025-26 season, we will see even higher numbers," the volunteer added. The primary protected nesting sites in Goa are located at Morjim, Mandrem, Galgibaga, and Agonda beaches. The nesting ritual always occurs at night during high tide, with only female turtles laboriously coming ashore to lay their eggs.
