Turtle Hatcheries

Sri Lanka is teeming with marine life, including five of the seven species of sea turtles. The prime locations to observe these turtles are Hikkaduwa, Marissa, and Trincomalee, where numerous turtle hatcheries are situated. Their main goal is to safeguard turtle eggs until they hatch and then release the hatchlings into the sea.

Amidst the coral reefs of Hikkaduwa, you can encounter green turtles, Olive Ridley turtles, Hawksbill turtles, loggerhead turtles, and leatherback turtles. The period from November to May is the peak time for turtles to lay eggs, and during this season, it's common to witness a turtle laying eggs. Both on land and in the water, turtle eggs and hatchlings face threats, and only a few manage to survive the journey.

In Sri Lanka, there are many turtle hatcheries you can visit. The Department of Wildlife has shut down most unauthorized hatcheries. The Turtle Conservation Project (TCP) is the sole authorized organization managing turtle hatcheries in Sri Lanka. Nonetheless, several NGOs and individuals have also established hatcheries as a business venture to attract tourists.