Dead Olive Ridley Turtles Found Along Chennai Coast

At least 10 dead Olive Ridley sea turtles were found on December 29 at Injambakkam, many in an advanced stage of decay. Since the annual nesting season began in December, over 100 dead turtles have washed up along the Chennai coast, and a few were also seen in Puducherry. However, officials say the official count is lower.

“Every dead turtle is recorded. Since the start of the season, 88 carcasses have been found,” said Rakesh Kumar Dogra, Chief Wildlife Warden. The Olive Ridley sea turtle is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is taking several steps to protect them, including stopping trawlers, which are banned up to five nautical miles from the shore during the nesting season.