Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery Guide
A Helping Hand: Witness Turtle Conservation in Action at Hikkaduwa Guide
The Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery is a conservation center dedicated to protecting sea turtles and increasing their survival rates. Located near the popular tourist destination of Hikkaduwa, this hatchery provides a safe haven for turtle eggs and hatchlings, offering visitors a chance to learn about these fascinating creatures and contribute to their preservation. It's a rewarding experience for families and anyone interested in marine life. Turtle hatcheries in Sri Lanka, including the one in Hikkaduwa, play a crucial role in mitigating the threats faced by sea turtles. These threats include poaching of eggs, habitat destruction, and entanglement in fishing gear. The hatcheries collect eggs from beaches, incubate them in a safe environment, and release the hatchlings back into the ocean, significantly increasing their chances of survival. At the Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery, you can observe baby turtles of various species, including Green Turtles, Loggerhead Turtles, and Hawksbill Turtles. You can learn about the different stages of their life cycle, from egg to hatchling. Some hatcheries allow visitors to participate in releasing baby turtles into the ocean (depending on availability and conservation guidelines). While the hatchery itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, Hikkaduwa is known for its delicious seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh catches while supporting the local economy.
Transportation
The Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery is easily accessible by bus or train from Colombo or Galle. Take a bus or train to Hikkaduwa town. From the Hikkaduwa bus or train station, you can take a tuk-tuk to the turtle hatchery, which is located a short distance away. Many buses travel along the main coastal road and stop in Hikkaduwa.