Welcome to Kosgoda, a coastal paradise renowned for its sea turtle conservation efforts led by the Wildlife Protection Society of Sri Lanka. Since its establishment in 1988, this conservation project has been a beacon of hope for Sri Lanka’s endangered turtle population.

At the heart of Kosgoda lies a noble mission: to safeguard Sri Lanka’s turtles from the brink of extinction. Through tireless dedication and unwavering commitment, the project has released over 3.5 million baby turtles into the wild, ensuring the survival of this precious species for generations to come.

The conservation efforts at Kosgoda are as heartwarming as they are vital. Each night, local fishermen comb the expansive sandy beaches, collecting turtle eggs under the cloak of darkness. These eggs, gathered during the main laying season from October to April, and occasionally throughout the year, are carefully buried in the sand within the hatchery’s protective confines.

After a gestation period of approximately 50 days, the miracle of life unfolds as baby turtles emerge from their sandy nests. Under the watchful eyes of conservationists, these tiny hatchlings are gently guided to the ocean’s edge, where they embark on their journey into the vast expanse of the sea, under the cover of night.

Yet, the journey to maturity is fraught with challenges, and only a rare few of these hatchlings will survive to adulthood. Recognizing this harsh reality, the Kosgoda turtle hatchery provides sanctuary for injured or disabled turtles, offering them a safe haven where they can thrive under expert care.

Among the residents of the hatchery are albino turtles, whose unique appearance renders them vulnerable in the wild. Here, they find solace and protection, their lives enriched by the compassionate care of dedicated conservationists.

Kosgoda stands as a testament to the power of conservation, where every effort, no matter how small, contributes to the preservation of our planet’s precious biodiversity. In this coastal haven, hope springs eternal, as each release of a baby turtle into the vast ocean symbolizes a triumph of resilience and the promise of a brighter future for all species.