Sri Lanka Turtle Conservation

Sea turtles are one of the planet's most important guardians and protectors of the ocean. These beautiful creatures are often called keystone species, which means that their role in the ecosystem is necessary and irreplaceable-and has been so for over 100 million years (since the time of the dinosaurs!). Each species contributes positively to this ecosystem in different ways, from leatherback turtles helping to control jellyfish populations to hawksbill turtles consuming the sponges that can damage coral reefs.

With sea turtles facing threats such as poaching, loss of nesting habitats and marine pollution, it is more important than ever to actively protect these animals and create a safe sanctuary for them at every stage of their life cycle. This volunteer project is all about getting involved with a professional local team to help make the beaches and oceans a safer place.

Home to five out of seven sea turtle species, the marine biodiversity inside Sri Lanka's oceans is extraordinary. The aim of the project is to preserve Sri Lanka's natural environments for future generations. Beyond this, Sri Lanka as a destination has so much to offer to travellers - from awe-inspiring temples and tropical beaches to surfing and sensational food!

For this project, you will volunteer from Monday to Friday. No prior experience is required; all you need is a compassionate attitude toward animals and the environment and an enthusiasm to learn from the local teams!

While there is no set itinerary and activities can be subject to change and availability, below we have included the activities that you will typically get involved in on this project.

Hatchery work is where you will spend most of your time, around three or four days a week. Sometimes, this will be with a secondary hatchery which is within 25 minutes from the volunteer house. Tasks involve:

• Caring for and feeding injured, elderly and disabled turtles
• Cleaning and maintaining turtle tanks to replicate natural marine conditions
• Safeguarding eggs by relocating them to secure hatching areas
• Releasing healthy hatchlings into the ocean
• Maintaining the overall cleanliness and functionality of the hatchery

Beach clean-ups usually take place once a week, and involve collecting and segregating waste, as well as facilitating proper disposal and recycling. This is to ensure that the sea turtles can have clean sites to create their nests!

Special activities are also included. These can vary each week, however, here's a taster of what you could be doing:

• Developing awareness campaigns and signage
• Marine conservation workshops with local communities
• Supporting recycling initiatives or reforestation projects
• River clean-ups

Night patrols. If you choose dates between December to April, this is the primary nesting season. Volunteers will spend a few nights on the beach observing and documenting mother sea turtles laying eggs, as well as safeguarding these eggs for a secure relocation.