Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre: A Lifeline in Mahamodara 

Located just a few kilometers north of the Galle Fort, the Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Mahamodara is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of Sri Lanka's endangered sea turtles. In a world where these ancient mariners face threats from poaching, habitat loss, and plastic pollution, this centre provides a safe haven for nesting and recovery.

A baby Green Turtle preparing for its journey back to the Indian Ocean.

The Hatching Process: From Sand to Sea

One of the centre's most vital roles is protecting turtle eggs. Poachers often steal eggs from the beach to sell in local markets. The hatchery staff and volunteers patrol the beaches at night, or purchase eggs from locals to ensure they are buried in a protected sandy enclosure at the centre.

After a gestation period of roughly 48 to 60 days, the tiny hatchlings emerge. They are kept in seawater tanks for a few days to gain strength before being released into the ocean under the cover of darkness, which significantly increases their survival rate by avoiding daytime predators.

The Rehabilitation Hospital

Beyond hatching eggs, the centre serves as a sanctuary for injured adult turtles. Many are brought in with injuries from fishing nets ("ghost nets"), boat propellers, or after ingesting plastic. You will see several large tanks housing these permanent or temporary residents.

• Disabled Turtles: Some turtles have lost flippers and can no longer dive or swim effectively in the wild. They remain at the centre to be cared for indefinitely.
• Medical Treatment: Staff use specialized techniques to treat infections and wounds, with the goal of releasing every healthy turtle back into the wild.

Meeting the Residents

Sri Lanka is visited by five of the world's seven species of sea turtles. At Mahamodara, you can often see:

• The Green Turtle: The most common nester in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful sun-ray pattern on the shell.
• The Hawksbill: Critically endangered and prized for its "tortoiseshell" patterned scales.
• The Olive Ridley: Smallest of the species, often found in large numbers during nesting seasons.
• The Albino Turtle: A rare sight; the hatchery often has one or two albino Green Turtles that would not survive in the wild due to lack of camouflage.

Community & Volunteerism

The hatchery is a family-run endeavor that relies heavily on the support of the local community and international volunteers. By visiting, your entrance fee goes directly toward food for the turtles, medical supplies, and the purchase of eggs from the "black market" to save them from consumption.

Planning Your Visit

Frequently Asked Questions