Threats to the Sea Turtles and Shortcomings in Conservation Practices: A Geographic Assessment of Nesting Sites at Kosgoda Beach, Sri Lanka
Abstract: Kosgoda Beach on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka supports nesting by five globally recognized sea turtle species. This study examines the main threats affecting nesting processes and evaluates the effectiveness of conservation centres operating in the area. Fieldwork was conducted using participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and group discussions with conservation staff, local residents, and volunteers between June 2024 and June 2025. The findings reveal persistent human pressures, including poaching, egg collection, tourism-related disturbance, and bycatch, alongside weaknesses in hatchery management and release practices. Natural predation and pollution further intensify stress on nesting populations. The analysis highlights the tension between ex-situ hatchery operations and the need for stronger in-situ habitat protection under state regulation. Strengthened policy enforcement, ethical tourism management, and community-based conservation are recommended to safeguard long-term population stability at Kosgoda.
Keywords: Sea Turtle, Kosgoda Beach, Hatchlings, Threats, Sea Turtle Conservation Centres
How to Cite?: M. A. M. Isthikar, "Threats to the Sea Turtles and Shortcomings in Conservation Practices: A Geographic Assessment of Nesting Sites at Kosgoda Beach, Sri Lanka", Volume 15 Issue 2, February 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1103-1109, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26216131621, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26216131621