Thoothukudi Collector’s initiative to conserve Olive Ridley turtles

District Collector K. Senthil Raj, with the help of Department of Forest and the fishermen, has launched a much-needed initiative to conserve Olive Ridley turtles found in the Gulf of Mannar. Since Ol

District Collector K. Senthil Raj, with the help of Department of Forest and the fishermen, has launched a much-needed initiative to conserve Olive Ridley turtles found in the Gulf of Mannar.

Since Olive Ridley turtles that feed on invertebrates and algae are important for protecting the marine eco system, it has been protected legally as Schedule I animal of Wildlife Protection Act 1972. Even then, it was being poached for its meat especially when it came to the shore to lay eggs despite the campaign in the coastal hamlets, said Forest officials. Hence, Dr. Senthil Raj has launched this initiative by involving the Forest Department and the locals.