Nature Visit to Purnabandha: Turtle Nesting Observation at Rushikulya River
The Rushikulya River is renowned for its turtle nesting grounds, where, each year, Olive Ridley turtles undertake an extraordinary journey to lay their eggs. During the early months of February and March, these turtles travel thousands of miles from Malaysia, guided by instinct, to the banks of the Rishikulya in Odisha. This natural wonder is a sight to behold, as thousands of turtles arrive to ensure the continuity of their species.
In collaboration with a local conservation expert from Odisha, our club organized a memorable field visit . The trip was designed not only to observe these incredible creatures up close but also to gain insight into the conservation efforts vital to protecting them. Although we missed the peak hours of the hatching season, arriving at dusk when the last light had faded, the visit left an unforgettable impression on all of us.
Permission Granted By: Vishwas Chavan
Arrangements Made By: Bodhisatta Nandy
conducted at Rushikulya River on 12th of February, 2024
Rushikulya River: A Sanctuary for Olive Ridley Turtles
The Rushikulya River, located along the eastern coast of Odisha, is renowned for its significant role in the annual nesting of Olive Ridley turtles. These turtles undertake an incredible migration of thousands of miles from the shores of Malaysia, guided solely by instinct, to return to the same beaches along the Rushikulya River to lay their eggs. Every year, during the months of February and March, the beaches here witness a spectacle as thousands of these endangered turtles come ashore to ensure the survival of their species. This extraordinary event makes the river's estuarine and coastal ecosystem an important site for conservation and wildlife observation
Collaborative Field Visit to Observe Turtle Nesting
br>In collaboration with a local conservation expert from Odisha, the Oasis club organized a field visit to Purnabandha, located near the Rushikulya River, to observe the nesting behavior of the Olive Ridley turtles. The trip aimed to give participants a hands-on experience in studying the turtles' nesting process while also learning about the conservation efforts necessary to protect these majestic creatures. The visit provided an opportunity for students and participants to witness one of natures most awe-inspiring events firsthand, as well as to understand the vital importance of preserving natural habitats for the survival of endangered species
A Memorable Visit Despite Missing the Peak Hatching Season
Although the group arrived at dusk, missing the peak hatching season, the visit was still incredibly impactful. The last light of the day faded as participants stood on the beach, watching the ocean's rhythmic tides and reflecting on the importance of conservation. Even without witnessing the hatching turtles, the trip provided a profound insight into the ongoing struggles of wildlife conservation. The group was able to interact with local conservationists who shared their efforts to protect the nesting grounds and ensure that the turtles' journey to the ocean is safe from human interference and natural predators.
The visit to Purnabandha, though at the tail end of the hatching season, left a lasting impression on all participants. It highlighted the critical need for continued conservation efforts in Odisha, where large numbers of Olive Ridley turtles return year after year. With the guidance of local experts, the Oasis club members gained a deeper understanding of the importance of such conservation initiatives. This field visit not only enhanced their knowledge of marine biodiversity but also strengthened their commitment to supporting conservation efforts for endangered species like the Olive Ridley turtles.
Moments -
Visuals from the event
Coordinated by - subrat, prajna, Priyanshu, ronil
Present members were -
Event Written by - brety