Olive Ridley TurtlesTamil NaduConservation EffortsWildlife ProtectionForest Department
Tamil Nadu Releases 1.65 Lakh Olive Ridley Turtle Hatchlings Into Sea
Published: May 9, 2026
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The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has reported the successful release of 1.65 lakh Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings into the sea along the Tamil Nadu coast this nesting season. According to department data, 1,985 turtle nests have been recorded, with around 2.29 lakh eggs collected and protected.
The nesting season has also witnessed a significant decline in turtle mortality, with deaths dropping by nearly 50% from 1,572 turtles last year to 784 this year, attributed to extensive monitoring and coordination among government agencies, volunteers, and coastal communities.
Chennai Wildlife Region recorded the highest nesting activity, with 656 nests and 74,143 eggs collected, while Cuddalore emerged as a leading conservation district, with 48,617 hatchlings safely returning to the sea.
The nesting season is still underway, with more than 62,000 hatchlings yet to emerge, and officials have credited the Students Sea Turtle Conservation Network, Tree Foundation India, the Coast Guard, and other organizations for their contribution to conservation efforts. The Forest Department will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to ensure the success of the conservation efforts, with the next steps including the release of the remaining hatchlings and the evaluation of the season's outcomes.