Nature lovers of
Kolavipalam in Kozhikode, Kerala are doing their part to maintain the marine
ecology of their area through a novel initiative. New project to the
conservation of turtles, which is an endangered species, is a ‘turtle beach’ in
the area, which has been providing much-needed support to the conservation of
turtles. Kolavipalam beach is very close to Payyoli beach, which is around 4 kms away from Kottakkal in Kozhikode district. Over the years, conservation efforts spearheaded by residents in the area have developed into a mass movement and the activities of the local conservationists are now being closely followed by the international community. In addition, it has become a main centre of attraction for children from around 250 schools in the area.
Kolavipalam beach is well known for Olive Ridley turtles, which are one of the smallest of all marine turtle species. Tourists visit here during the month of September to catch a glimpse of the turtles and their breeding activities. One of the specialties of this location is that it provides a safe breeding ground for the turtles. September to March is the breeding season for the turtles and during this time, they move closer to the shore for laying eggs during late nights and early mornings.
Recent reports show that around 831 Olive Ridley species hatched at a palm grove here. They were later released into the sea by a group of nature lovers. Members of the 'Theeram Nature Conservation Society' collected over 1,200 eggs laid by 11 turtles in the area during the nesting season.
Recently, natives of Kolavipalam had taken initiatives to generate awareness among residents of the coastal belt and the fisher folk who interact with the turtles the most. Illegal sand mining around the estuary and plastic waste that has accumulated here also cause serious threats to the turtles. The Kerala Government is also putting more attention on preserving the natural breeding grounds here with a view to conserve the turtles. Read Full story
