The journey is a long one. Having made her way through countless challenges, the end is in sight. Her destination looms over the horizon. As she gets closer, she can make out the sliver of sand in the moonlight. The waves help her as she nears the shore, tired no doubt from the long sojourn. But there is much to do. The light of the moon guides her on as she makes her way in search of a safe haven. She finds the “right” spot and despite the many miles that have been swum, she begins to dig. It is deep enough now and she safely leaves behind those precious “miracles of life” before covering them up. She returns once more to the sea, perhaps tempted to look back and wonder about the fate of her young ones, which is yet to be determined.
It is a sad fact however, that many of these hatchlings will not survive. Some may never even make it to the sea from their nest. Poaching of eggs, loss of habit, pollution and illegal trade have all lent to most sea turtles being classified as endangered as their numbers dwindle. While humankind is to blame, we also have a responsibility to give them a chance to live. If you would like to ensure these hatchlings have better odds of surviving, then the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery in Sri Lanka is a place you should definitely look to visit when next on holiday here. You can consider staying at beach hotels in Sri Lanka along the South Coast such as Citrus Waskaduwa and make your way to this site which is very much involved in turtle conservation.
At the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery you get a chance to see where rescued turtle eggs are safely kept. Once hatched these baby turtles are then released to the sea where they will begin their own journey, with some of them perhaps returning to these very shores to continue the circle of life. You can call ahead and find out when the hatchlings are being released and witness this amazing break for freedom, under the watchful eyes of those gathered, silently willing them on to the life that waits ahead.
You can also expect to see baby turtles in tanks at the site along with adult turtles that are being rehabilitated. Maybe even join its volunteer programme and get hands on experience of helping to save these endangered species that truly deserve a chance to swim wild and free in their ocean home.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
