Mass mortality of Olive Ridley turtles in Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh raises concerns.

January 27, 2023

Several ORT breeding grounds in Godavari region like Sakhinetipalli, Malikipuram, Mamidikuduru and Allavaram etcof Andhra Pradesh (A.P) have been witnessing mass mortality of turtles.
Scientific name of Olive Ridley Turtles (ORT) is Lepidochelys olivacea
ORT are smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles, inhabiting warm waters of Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans.
In India, they nest mostly in eastern coast in A.P and Odisha (Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary and Rushikulya coast).
ORT, along with Kemps ridley turtle, are best known for their unique mass nesting called Arribada.
Threats: Unfriendly fishing practices, exploitation of nesting beaches.
Protection: IUCN status: Vulnerable, Schedule I species under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.