Saving Endangered Sea Turtles

Bangladesh is one of the most blessed countries having huge natural resources and biodiversity. Incessant population increase affecting the rate of wildlife population decline in Bangladesh. With a view to conserving our nature and wildlife, we, Isabela foundation are are working tirelessly and our exploratory story begins here on Sonadia Island which is considered as stronghold for a huge range of threatened wildlife and migratory birds. The sandy beaches and are preferable nesting sites for sea turtles and among 5 species of sea turtles found in Bangladesh, Olive Ridley and Green Sea turtles travel thousands of kilometers to come to nest here in Sonadia Island. However, life of this sea turtles in Sonadia Island is highly threatened by offshore fisheries that often catch and kill them while fishing. Light pollution by ship has added negative effect on turtle nesting rate in this island. And also, some animals, birds, crabs, sharks and human counted as enemy to turtle eggs and hatchlings while crossing the sandy beach. To protect the mother turtles and their hatchlings from these dangers, we have worked throughout the nesting season. From the arrival of tortoise for laying eggs, collection of eggs from risk zone and building temporary hatchery, labeling each nest with the number of eggs, guarding the eggs for 60-70 days, and delivering the hatchlings safely to their destination immediately after hatching- all are done with utmost devotion. Also we are trying to raise awareness among local people mostly fisherman not to kill turtles that are entangled or caught during fishing. This is how we are working to save this endangered species and ensuring their safe coming back for nesting here in their birth place.