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Millions of years ago before man colonized Sri Lanka, marine turtles had been coming to the undisturbed beaches of this island to lay their eggs. The World Conservation Union (IUCN) lists all five species of marine turtle (Leatherback, Green, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead and Hawksbill) that frequent Sri Lanka’s shores to nest as endangered or critically endangered. However, turtle nesting beaches are being disturbed and feeding habitats, such as coral reefs, are being destroyed by pollution and unsustainable harvesting. However most widespread form of marine turtle exploitation within this area is illegal poaching, collection of turtle eggs & many turtles are accidentally caught and drowned in fishing gear/nets each year.
This project aims to devise and facilitate the implementation of sustainable marine turtle conservation strategies through education, research and community participation. Here you will get a chance to work in conjunction with the local community members, project staff and Wildlife officers to encourage a safe nesting beach for the 5 species that nest there and are required to work demanding shifts, night or day, on the beach.
• Enjoy the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka's south coast renowned for activities such as surfing, snorkeling, ship wreck dives etc
• Access to abundant marine life including turtles, whales, dolphins, corals etc
• Local hospitality at its best
• Go crab fishing in the lagoon
• Night patrols along the coast & be lucky enough to witness a turtle nesting
• Help the livelihood of the local villages
• Relax at the quite lagoon house
• Based in the 1st marine sanctuary in Sri Lanka
• Close proximity to Yala National Park and Kelamitiya Bird Sanctuary
• Delicious home cooked local meals
• Explore nature trails around the site
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