Quiet watchmen as it were to the changing of time, having swum in the world’s oceans from the age of the dinosaurs; turtles are part of an intricate web that forms the delicate underwater ecosystem that is so vital for survival not only for marine life forms but us humans as well. Sadly these stoic creatures who have witnessed the passing of the seasons of both Mother Nature and humankind are fast disappearing from the waters that they call home. But their passing away we will herald the end of us as well. Thankfully efforts are being made across the world to help save turtles and give them a fighting chance in an ever-changing world.

One such initiative can be found in the island of Sri Lanka in the quaint coastal town of Koggala, where you will come across a turtle farm & hatchery. It is a site that offers you a chance to see conservation in action and you can reach this coastal locale by Cinnamon Air which features transport to the area by way of an air taxi. Sri Lanka is visited by five of the world’s seven turtle species who come to the island’s shores to nest; Olive Ridley Turtle, Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle and the Leatherback Turtle. Mother turtles traverse great distances to come and nest their precious “cargo”, before returning to sea.

The Koggala Turtle Farm & Hatchery seeks to protect these eggs from both animal predators and human encroachment and poaching. Eggs are taken from the nest and placed in a protected hatchery within the safe confines of the site. When they hatch, the baby turtles are kept until the suitable time for them to be released. On a trip here you have a chance to see baby turtles in tanks which is a kind of transit home before they are released under watchful and loving eyes. Look to contact them ahead and plan a visit when the baby turtles are being released. It is an unforgettable opportunity to see these creatures take their first tentative steps to the ocean and to a brave new world that awaits.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+