GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT
The endangered Olive Ridley turtles are renowned for their mass nesting phenomenon called “arribada.” In 2024, they skipped nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth, but experts anticipate a significant nesting event in 2025.
Mass Nesting Behaviour
- Olive Ridley turtles follow a cyclical nesting pattern, typically every three years.
- In 2023, approximately 637,000 turtles nested over a three-kilometre beach stretch.
- The expected 2025 nesting aligns with these observed patterns.
Favourable Environmental Conditions
- Climatic factors: Mating turtles spotted in large numbers in the Bay of Bengal
- Beach conditions: The Rushikulya river did not flood, preventing erosion
- Formation of a new sandbar offers additional nesting space
Conservation Initiatives
- Fishing Ban: Imposed from November 1 to May 31 within a 20-kilometre radius
- Beach Cleanup: Organized to ensure safe and undisturbed nesting
- Protective Fencing: Installed to prevent human disturbances
Monitoring and Research Efforts
- The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has tagged around 15,000 turtles since 2021
- Tagging helps track turtle behaviour, nesting cycles, and migration patterns
- Recapturing tagged turtles will aid ongoing research
Ecological Significance
- Olive Ridley turtles help maintain marine ecosystems
- Their protection is crucial for marine biodiversity
These combined efforts highlight India’s commitment to safeguarding this precious species and preserving its natural nesting habitats.