Puri, Feb 4: The Olive Ridley turtle nesting season has begun along the Konark coastline in Odisha, with the turtles starting their egg-laying process this February. To ensure the protection of their nests, the forest department has established temporary protection and breeding centers at locations including Kanarpur, Chandrabhaga, Dashadhadia, and Ramchandi, under the Konark Wildlife Sanctuary.

As of February 2, a total of 2,077 eggs have been collected from 19 nests and safely stored at the temporary hatcheries. These eggs are being kept in secure conditions across four different centers to protect them from threats such as stray dogs and other predators.

The eggs are expected to hatch in 45 to 55 days. Once the young hatchlings emerge, they will be safely released into the deep sea, continuing the life cycle of the Olive Ridley turtles.

To safeguard the eggs, security personnel have been deployed to prevent any disturbances or potential harm from animals like stray dogs. Sudarshan Dehuri, the Konark Wildlife Sanctuary Officer, confirmed that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the eggs and the turtles during this critical breeding period.