Sri Lanka has several spots along its western, southwestern, southern and southeastern coastal areas that are turtle nesting grounds. The highest nesting rates in Sri Lanka, for five of the seven species of turtles found in the world, have been recorded along a 2km stretch of beach in Rekewa, a village about 10 km east of Tangalle on the southern coast. Undisturbed coastal vegetation and a wide clean swath of beach provide the ideal conditions for turtle nesting. Generally, all species nesting in Rekewa lay around 100-180 eggs in a clutch, with green turtles laying the most number of clutches. The five species of turtles that come to Rekewa beach are on the IUCN Red List of threatened animals. Turtles nest on Rekewa beach throughout the year, peaking from March to July.
The green turtle, which is the most prolific egg-layer is approximately a meter long and weighs 230 kg when fully grown. Green refers to the colour of the fat under the shell. The Olive Rideley Turtle is the smallest of the turtles that nests in Rekewa. Measuring about 65cm, it weighs less than 40kg. The leatherback is the largest of the marine turtles and generally grows up to 3 meters in length and weighs around 600kg. It is distinguished from other turtles by the lack of a bony shell. Hawksbill turtles are small, reaching 90cm and weighing 50kg when fully grown. They are distinguished by their pointed nose that is used to dislodge food from crevices. This species is severely endangered because they nest in small numbers over a widespread area and because their beautifully patterned shells are coveted. Loggerhead turtles grow up to one meter and weigh about 180kg. The name is because of the large head and muscular jaws.
Female turtles drag themselves out of the water onto the beach, dig a hole above the high watermark with the tips of their front flippers, lay about 120 eggs, pack sand on top of the clutch and make their way back to the sea. After an incubation period that lasts for about 55 days, the eggs hatch and baby turtles emerge and make the arduous journey to the sea. Watching the turtles making their way up the beach and being a witness to the whole egg-laying process, which has been happening for millennia, is a very humbling experience. The process takes place after sundown and onlookers come armed with torch lights to witness the amazing proceedings. However, on moonlit nights, the dark sea with silver-tipped waves and glistening white beach gives it a primeval atmosphere. This and the night dash to the sea of the baby turtles are among the most popular ‘must see’ events in the area.
On a rocky outcrop overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and a stretch of golden beach stands, Saman Villas Bentota is one of prominent Sri Lanka boutique hotels where the views and the beautifully laid out premises appeal to all the senses. This all-suite luxury hotel Sri Lanka offers features a host of top-end amenities and facilities and has created the perfect setting for a romantic beach holiday where privacy and comfort predominate.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.
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