Morjim: A Vital Nesting Ground
The Olive Ridley turtle, a species recognised globally as vulnerable, faces numerous survival threats. In Goa, and specifically on Morjim Beach, turtle nesting occurs at its heart, providing a critical sanctuary for these vulnerable creatures. Their global conservation status has led to the implementation of ex-situ conservation approaches, where eggs are carefully relocated to protected hatcheries, ensuring a higher survival rate. Goa's coastal stretch, including Morjim, provides several vital nesting sites along India's western coastline, playing an indispensable role in the Olive Ridley's life cycle and acting as a focal point for conservation initiatives. The unique conditions here offer a vital refuge, emphasising the region's importance in safeguarding this endangered species.
Protecting Nesting Sites
Conservation efforts are paramount to safeguarding the future of olive ridley turtles in Goa. The state government has implemented crucial restrictions on beach activities to minimise disturbance during the nesting season. Local organisations, in collaboration with the Forest Department, play a vital role in these initiatives. Notably, Vanashakti has undertaken vigilant monitoring, successfully reporting and halting unauthorised Jet Ski operations and sand dredging, both of which pose significant threats to nesting sites. Furthermore, to enhance public awareness and encourage responsible behaviour, a Morjim Sea Turtle Festival has been proposed. This festival aims to educate tourists and locals alike about the Olive Ridleys, their nesting habits, conservation initiatives, and the challenges hatchlings face in the ocean, fostering a collective commitment to their protection.
A Natural Spectacle Unfolds
From November to March, the shoreline of Turtle Beach in Goa, Morjim transforms into a theatre of nature's most delicate drama. Under the cloak of night, female Olive Ridley turtles emerge from the sea, driven by an ancient instinct. Using their powerful back flippers, they meticulously excavate nests in the warm sand, depositing up to 100 eggs. This arduous process, lasting several hours, culminates in the mother's slow retreat back to the ocean. For approximately 60 days, the eggs incubate, cradled by the sun-warmed sand. Then, a magical moment unfolds: tiny hatchlings emerge, instinctively navigating their way down the beach, guided by the moon's reflection on the water, toward the vast expanse of the sea. Witnessing this incredible journey is a privilege, a testament to the resilience of these remarkable creatures.
