Rare Olive Ridley sea turtle rescued in Kuakata

A rare live Olive Ridley sea turtle, weighing around 30–35 kg, has been rescued from Kuakata beach, a popular tourist destination in Patuakhali.

Local photographer Saifur Islam spotted the turtle near DC Park on Saturday (16 May) morning and informed the environmental organisation Upkool Poribesh Raksha Andolan (Upra).

After receiving the information, members of the organisation quickly arrived at the scene and rescued the turtle.

Environmental activists confirmed that the rescued animal is an Olive Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea).

Known as the "Pacific Ridley", this species lives in warm tropical waters around the world. Although mainly found in the Indian and Pacific oceans, it is also seen in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the species as vulnerable.

According to local sources, the turtle was found lying weak and exhausted near the waves early in the morning. It was later moved to a safe place. Members of UPRA provided first aid and informed the Forest Department and the upazila livestock officer.

UPRA Convener KM Bachchu said they initially believed the turtle was an adult female Olive Ridley turtle. Female turtles usually come to quiet coastal beaches during this season to lay eggs, and the turtle may have come to the Kuakata coast for that purpose.

However, he said the turtle was found in a very weak condition, which could have been caused by getting trapped in fishing nets, staying out of water for a long time, or swallowing plastic waste.

"We have rescued the turtle and kept it in a safe place where it is receiving first aid," he said.

He added that the turtle was being monitored for any serious injuries and that officials from the Forest and Livestock departments had been contacted.

Kuakata Forest Department Camp Officer Md Rubel said Olive Ridley sea turtles are an important part of the country's coastal biodiversity and are rarely seen.

"The turtle could be rescued alive because local people informed us quickly. We are now monitoring its condition. If necessary, expert advice will be taken. Once it recovers, it will be released safely back into the sea," he said.

Asaduzzaman Miraj, member secretary of the Coastal Environment Protection Movement UPRA, said sea turtles and their breeding grounds are under serious threat from plastic and polythene waste, water pollution, climate change, and unregulated fishing.

He said many turtles face danger during the egg-laying season because coastal areas often lack a safe environment.

Environmental activists said the presence of the rare Olive Ridley turtle on Kuakata beach is a positive sign for coastal biodiversity. However, they stressed the need for stronger government and private initiatives to protect such endangered wildlife.