The coastal town of Kosgoda is well-known for its scenic beaches and tranquil lagoon that offers visitors an abundance of water-based activities to indulge in. However, if water sports isn’t for you, there are plenty of other noteworthy places to visit and experience, such as the famous Kosgoda Turtle Centre. The sea turtle farm and hatchery is a non-profit conservation project that was initiated in 1988 by the Wild Life Protection Society of Sri Lanka, to protect the endangered turtles.
The hatchery pays fisherman and residents for turtle eggs that they find along the shore at night. This prevents the sale of turtle eggs for consumption and poaching and encourages locals to contact the hatchery when they find more eggs. Although the main egg laying season in between October to April, a fair amount of eggs are found at Kosgoda’s beaches through the year.
The hatchery buries the stray eggs in sand, and once hatched, usually 50 days later, the baby turtles are released into the sea at night. Some of the best Villas in Sri Lanka are located within walking distance of the hatchery, like luxurious Saffron & Blue, Kosgoda for instance, and they can arrange for guests to participate in the release program. Or else, get in touch with the hatchery yourself to find out programs that you can get involved with.
Since its inception, the hatchery has released an incredible 3.5 million hatchlings back into the sea through its release program. The hatchery also rescues injured or disabled adult turtles, including albino turtles. These are housed in large tanks at the hatchery until they are ready for release. There are also some sea turtles who are kept as educational exhibits; they are usually released back into the sea after a few years.
Seas turtles are one of the most endangered species and five varieties are found near Kosgoda. The Kosgoda Turtle Centre is a great place to get up close with these amazing creatures and learn more about what’s being done to help their survival.
Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media.
