Olive Ridley Sea Turtles at Hamsaladeevi – A Delicate Tale of Nature & Conservation

Hamsaladeevi (also spelled Hamsala Devi) in Andhra Pradesh, along the Krishna coast, is one of the notable nesting sites for the endangered Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) in India. These turtles make their way to the sandy shores of Hamsaladeevi during nesting season to lay eggs, an event that draws attention to both the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems. This post explores their biology, the importance of Hamsaladeevi, threats, conservation efforts, and how responsible tourism can make a difference. 

Biology & Conservation Status of Olive Ridley Turtles

• The Olive Ridley sea turtle is listed as Vulnerable globally by the IUCN Red List.

• Key threats include bycatch in fishing gear (trawls, gillnets), habitat loss (especially nesting beaches), pollution, and egg collection.

• The species exhibits both solitary nesting and arribada behavior (mass nesting) in some regions; however, only a handful of beaches host large arribadas.

Hamsaladeevi: A Nesting Ground of Local & Ecological Importance

• Hamsaladeevi is one of several beaches along the Krishna coast (others include Baruva, Kalingapatnam, Nagayalanka) where Olive Ridley turtles come ashore to lay eggs.

• Nesting season is typically from January to May along this coast.

• During nesting, tens of thousands of eggs may be laid. Local forest departments and wildlife groups often set up nesting camps or hatcheries to protect eggs.

Threats Facing Olive Ridleys at Hamsaladeevi

1. Egg Collection & Poaching

   • Collection of eggs for food or illegal trade reduces hatching success.

2. Fishing Bycatch

   • Turtles can get caught in fishing nets or trawlers, especially near shore.

3. Habitat Disruption

   • Development, lighting, coastal erosion, and human interference on beaches affect nesting.

4. Pollution & Marine Debris

   • Plastic, ghost nets, and waste impact hatchling survival and adult health.

5. Climate Change

   • Rising sea levels, changing beach profiles, and temperature changes affecting sex ratio of hatchlings.

Conservation Measures

• The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department and Tourism Authority have increased the number of rookery sites and are actively protecting eggs during nesting season.

• Awareness programs in coastal communities to reduce egg-collection and encourage safe observation.

• Patrols to protect nesting beaches from human disturbance and predators.

• Regulations on fishing gear (hopes for turtle-excluder devices) and safe fishing practices. 

Responsible Tourism: How Visitors Can Help

• Visit with authorized guides; avoid disturbing nesting turtles or hatchlings.

• Keep beaches clean; no plastic waste, avoid flash photography at night.

• Support local conservation efforts (hatcheries, awareness groups).

• Choose eco-friendly lodging near beach areas.

FAQ

Q1. When is the Olive Ridley nesting season at Hamsaladeevi?
Nestings usually occur from January to May along the Krishna coast.

Q2. How many eggs are laid during nesting?
An individual female lays about 100 or more eggs per clutch, and many females may nest multiple times. But actual numbers at Hamsaladeevi vary each year. General data for Olive Ridleys shows ~100 eggs per clutch.

Q3. Are Olive Ridley turtles endangered?
Yes, globally they are listed as Vulnerable (IUCN), with some regional populations more threatened.

Q4. Can tourists witness nesting at Hamsaladeevi?
Yes, but only under regulated conditions. Guided tours or observation camps are usually arranged by local forest or wildlife departments during nesting periods.

People Also Ask (PAA)

• Where else in India do Olive Ridley turtles nest besides Hamsaladeevi?
  Locations include Baruva, Kalingapatnam, Nagayalanka on the Andhra coast, and major sites like Gahirmatha and Rushikulya in Odisha.

• What is an arribada?
  Arribada is a mass nesting event where thousands of Olive Ridley females come ashore simultaneously to lay eggs. This behavior is seen in some International nesting beaches; along the Andhra coast nesting is less frequently a full arribada but still intense.

• How long do Olive Ridley eggs take to hatch?
  Incubation takes about 50–60 days depending on temperature and beach conditions.

• Do human lights affect hatchlings?
  Yes. Artificial lighting can disorient hatchlings, causing them to go inland instead of toward the sea, leading to high mortality.

Conclusion

The Olive Ridley sea turtles at Hamsaladeevi represent one of nature’s most remarkable journeys—returning to sandy shores to continue the circle of life. But their survival hinges on how we protect their nests, reduce threats, and foster conservation.

When we observe them with respect, support local efforts, and travel responsibly, we help ensure that future generations can witness this wonder too. Let Hamsaladeevi be more than a nesting site—it can be a symbol of hope for endangered species in India.