Sea Turtle Farm in Mahamodara
Owing to its tropical location, Sri Lanka is surrounded by waters that teem with vibrant marine life. The sea life found around the island consists of many species that are listed by the IUCN as endangered, with turtles being among the most prominent. All five sea turtle species the Green, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead, Leatherback, and Hawksbill can be found in the surrounding waters. These turtles occasionally come ashore to lay their eggs.
Sadly, most of the turtle eggs do not hatch, and even when they do, the hatchlings often do not make it to the ocean. To protect these vulnerable creatures, the government of Sri Lanka has implemented numerous conservation projects. These initiatives collect the eggs, incubate them, and safely release the hatchlings into the ocean, significantly improving their survival rates. Many non-profit organizations also contribute to this cause, running conservation projects with the help of volunteers.
Mahamodara Sea Turtle Hatchery is one such conservation center. Located just a few minutes' drive from Galle, it is managed by volunteers and dedicated to turtle conservation. Visitors receive a briefing about the conservation efforts upon arrival and are taken on a guided tour. During the visit, you may interact closely with these gentle creatures and even touch them. Most of the staff can communicate in English and are happy to answer your questions.
If you plan to visit this attraction, please avoid bringing plastic items or dispose of them responsibly. Be gentle if you choose to touch the turtles, as some may be injured. If you enjoy the experience, consider making a small donation to support the cause. You can also join the conservation efforts as a volunteer and participate in activities like collecting turtle eggs and caring for these remarkable animals.
