First batch of turtle hatchlings released

POINGUINIM: The first batch of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings – 76 so far from the nest laid on January 1 at Galigbaga – were released in the sea on Saturday. Nine other nests are being guarded at South Goa’s two sites.
A total of 116 eggs were laid in the season’s first nest on New Year’s Day.
Two more nests were laid at Galgibaga and seven at Agonda, as the season commenced late this year.
Deputy conservator of forest (wildlife and eco tourism, South Goa), Anisha Kalkoor was present when the hatchlings were released, while a few more were expected to emerge later.
Agonda and Galgibaga in Canacona and Morjim and Mandrem in Pernem are designated as turtle nesting sites under the coastal regulation zone, 2011.
“While the incubation period is about 55 days, the hatchlings at Galgibaga emerged after about 52 days,” range forest officer Vikramaditya Gaonkar said.