Owing to its tropical location, Sri Lanka is surrounded by waters that teem with vibrant marine life. The sea life found around the island consists of many that are entitled in the list of IUCN as endangered species and turtles rank among the most prominent creatures on this list. All of five sea turtle species such as the Green, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead, Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles can be found in the waters surrounding the island. And all of these turtles occasionally drop by the shores to lay their eggs.
Sadly, most of the turtle eggs do not hatch and even when they do, the little turtles who emerge from the sands do not make it to the oceans. In order to protect these feeble creatures, the government of Sri Lanka has devised numerous conservation projects which collects these eggs, incubates them and releases the hatchlings to the ocean in a safe manner increasing their survival rate. Many non-profit organisations too have joined this noble cause and are undertaking conservation projects with the aid of volunteers.
Mahamodara Sea Turtle Hatchery is one of such conservation centres and it is located just a few minutes drive away from Galle, the Hatchery is one of the many conservation centres that are designated to breed and conserve turtles on the island and this is too is being run by volunteers. They are certainly doing a good job in the conservation efforts and visitors could see it themselves. As you enter the centre visitors will be provided with a brief on how their system and conservation efforts work and they will show you around the centre. During this time, you could also get up close with these gentle creature and you can even touch them. Most of the volunteers and workers here can communicate in English and you could ask them questions as well.
If you plan on visiting this attraction, make sure that you do not bring plastic items with you and even if you do – dispose of them mindfully. Also, be a bit careful if you wish to touch these creatures as some of them can be injured. If you are satisfied with your tour, it is recommended to offer the centre a small donation in order to contribute to a noble cause. You could also join the conservation efforts as a volunteer and participate in the efforts of collecting turtle eggs and caring for these amazing creatures.
