Sixty-two newly hatched Olive Ridley Sea Turtles were released to the sea at the Poblacion Beach of Sipalay City on Wednesday, February 7.
Members of Sipalay City’s Bantay Dagat released the hatchlings after two months of monitoring since an adult Olive Ridley nested in the area.
Bantay Dagat Head Edsel Toledo told DIGICAST NEGROS that they discovered the adult Olive Ridley on December 16 and it usually takes 60 days to hatch the turtle eggs.
Since its nesting, members of the Bantay Dagat have been monitoring the area and fenced the nest to protect it.
On February 1, they also released 45 Olive Ridley Sea Turtles and they are currently monitoring another nest in the area where turtles are expected to hatch in early March.
Toledo said that because of its environment, Sipalay has been a nesting site for turtles and they are thankful for the cooperation of the community in protecting their nests.
He also reminded the public, especially the tourists, to report immediately if they have found nesting turtles to ensure their protection.
Reports can be made directly to the Sipalay City Bantay Dagat Office at Poblacion Beach or by calling 0921 528 6669, he said.*