Lakhs of Olive Ridley Turtle Hatchlings Born at Odisha Coast

On April 23, the annual mass nesting of endangered Olive Ridley turtles culminated in a spectacular natural event as lakhs of hatchlings emerged from sandy pits at Gahirmatha Beach, located along the Bay of Bengal coast in Odisha’s Kendrapara district.

The hatchlings, breaking free from their eggshells, began their long journey towards the sea. Wildlife enthusiasts and officials were elated by the sight, which is a testament to the successful nesting season. While the hatchlings ventured toward the water alone, without the guidance of their mothers, it marks a key moment in the survival of this endangered species.

Over the past 48 hours, the mass hatching event has seen a massive number of turtles emerge, drawing attention to the vital role of the Gahirmatha coastline as one of the world’s largest mass nesting sites for Olive Ridley turtles.