Sun Jan 04 13:47:44 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the article followed by a news article rewrite:
Summary:
Olive Ridley sea turtles are nesting in Visakhapatnam, India, but the discovery of dead turtles washed ashore is raising concerns. Experts believe the turtles are drowning after getting caught in fishing nets. Conservationists are calling for stricter enforcement of fishing regulations and are worried about the impact of artificial lighting on nesting patterns. The Forest Department plans to establish nesting zones and collaborate with organizations to protect the turtles during the nesting season, especially during the upcoming Visakha Utsav festival. The Andhra Pradesh coast is a vital nesting ground for these vulnerable turtles.
News Article:
Olive Ridley Turtle Deaths Spark Concern During Nesting Season in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam, India – January 4, 2026 – The annual nesting season for Olive Ridley sea turtles is underway along the Visakhapatnam coast, but the discovery of deceased turtles has alarmed wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. Three turtle carcasses washed ashore on Sunday morning at Muthyalammapalem, Thantadi, and Rajanapalem beaches.
Authorities suspect the turtles drowned after becoming entangled in fishing nets, particularly during migration. The Forest Department followed protocol by burying the carcasses. Experts emphasized that these turtles need to surface regularly to breathe, making them vulnerable to drowning if trapped underwater.
Conservationists are urging stricter enforcement of the Andhra Pradesh Marine Fishing Regulation Act, calling for action against illegal fishing within eight kilometers of the coastline. They also voiced concerns about the impact of artificial lighting along the coast, particularly near RK Beach, which could disrupt nesting patterns.
“Most nests are found in darker areas,” one conservationist noted, suggesting that reducing nighttime lighting could create a more favorable nesting environment.
The Forest Department is planning to establish four nesting zones next week and is collaborating with The Tree Foundation to operate hatcheries. Visakhapatnam District Forest Officer Ravindra Dhama assured that “Special precautions will be taken during the Visakha Utsav to ensure that the nesting turtles are not disturbed.”
The Andhra Pradesh coastline is a crucial nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles, listed as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The turtles typically nest on sandy beaches from December to April, with several coastal districts considered vital for nesting and hatching.
Conservationists are closely monitoring nesting patterns, noting their correlation with lunar cycles and tides. They observe that female turtles tend to come ashore during high tide, often crawling considerable distances before nesting.
First Piper 