REKAWA TURTLE HATCHERY

Rekawa Beach, nestled along the pristine southern coast of Sri Lanka, is a haven for several endangered species of sea turtles, including the green, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles. From April to September each year, these magnificent creatures undertake a remarkable journey, returning to the sandy shores of Rekawa under the cloak of night to lay their eggs. This natural spectacle has garnered worldwide attention, attracting conservationists and volunteers eager to protect these vulnerable species and ensure their survival for future generations.

For those eager to witness this awe-inspiring event firsthand, Rekawa Beach offers a unique opportunity to join turtle watching volunteers on nightly patrols along the shoreline. As the sun sets and the stars emerge overhead, volunteers venture out in small groups equipped with red-filtered torches to minimize disturbance to the nesting turtles. With bated breath, they scan the beach, eagerly anticipating the sight of a mother turtle emerging from the waves to begin the nesting process.

The arrival of a nesting turtle is met with a mix of excitement and reverence, as volunteers stand in awe of these majestic creatures. With deliberate movements, the mother turtle makes her way ashore, driven by an ancient instinct to ensure the continuation of her species. Volunteers maintain a respectful distance as she carefully selects a nesting site and begins to dig a shallow nest in the soft sand, a process that can take several hours to complete.

Once the eggs have been laid and covered with sand, volunteers carefully excavate the nest to collect the precious eggs, ensuring their safe transport to the conservation project's hatcheries. Here, the eggs are placed in incubators set to the optimal temperature and humidity levels for their development. Volunteers diligently monitor the eggs throughout the incubation period, eagerly awaiting the moment when the tiny hatchlings will emerge.

After a gestation period of approximately 45 to 60 days, the eggs begin to hatch, signaling the start of another chapter in the sea turtles' incredible journey. Under the watchful eye of volunteers, the hatchlings emerge from their shells and instinctively make their way towards the ocean, guided by the light of the moon and stars. This perilous journey is fraught with danger, as predators lurk both on land and in the water, posing a threat to the vulnerable hatchlings.

To improve the hatchlings' chances of survival, volunteers provide guidance and protection as they navigate the treacherous terrain of the beach. By creating a clear path to the water and shielding the hatchlings from potential threats, volunteers help ensure that as many turtles as possible reach the safety of the ocean. Once in the water, the hatchlings embark on a remarkable voyage, navigating the vast expanse of the ocean in search of food and refuge.

Throughout this extraordinary journey, volunteers play a pivotal role in safeguarding the future of sea turtles and their fragile ecosystems. By participating in nightly patrols, collecting and incubating eggs, and guiding hatchlings to the sea, volunteers contribute to ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures. Their unwavering dedication and commitment serve as a beacon of hope for the preservation of sea turtles and the marine environments they inhabit.

In conclusion, the turtle watching experience at Rekawa Beach offers a rare and unforgettable opportunity to witness one of nature's most awe-inspiring events. By joining the ranks of turtle watching volunteers, visitors not only have the chance to observe nesting turtles up close but also play a vital role in their conservation and protection. Through their efforts, volunteers help ensure that future generations will continue to marvel at the sight of sea turtles returning to the shores of Rekawa Beach for generations to come.