Sri Lankan coastline is home to some of the world’s most remarkable marine biodiversity, including sea turtles that nest along its sandy shores. This coastal ecosystem is typically associated with coral reefs and shipwrecks that transform into unique habitats. The following five sea turtle species can be highlighted among the diverse species around the Sri Lankan Sea.

These ancient mariners, who have traversed the oceans for millions of years, now face unprecedented threats from habitat loss, pollution, illegal harvesting, and climate change. Recognizing the urgent need to safeguard these species, the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) has undertaken this dedicated Turtle Conservation Project.

Sri Lanka Coast Guard Turtle Conservation Project (SLCG-TCP) was launched in 2016 at SLCG Headquarters premises in Mirissa beach. The main focus of the project is preventing the poaching of eggs, protecting the existing population of nesting, and increasing the number of hatchlings. Currently, SLCG-TCP is maintaining sea turtle hatcheries at Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Benthota, Moragalla, Panadura, Mt. Lavenia, and Wellawatta, other than Mirissa.

Through this program, the SLCG reaffirms its role as a guardian of Sri Lanka’s coastal belt, ensuring that future generations may continue to witness the grace of sea turtles nesting on our beaches and swimming freely in our waters.