PHANG-NGA, Jan 9 (TNA) – A second leatherback sea turtle has nested on Koh Phra Thong island in southern Thailand’s Phang Nga province, laying 124 eggs in what officials are calling an encouraging sign for the endangered species.
Marine and Coastal Resources Office 6 officials discovered the nest on Thung Dap beach during a routine patrol. The turtle left distinctive tracks measuring 200 centimeters in width, with a chest width of 98 centimeters. Upon excavation, they found the eggs at a depth of 74 centimeters.
Of the total eggs laid, 76 were viable while 48 were infertile. Due to the nest’s vulnerable location near sea level and trees, authorities relocated the eggs to a safer location closer to the local community. A temporary protective enclosure was constructed to guard against natural threats.
“This year’s exciting news isn’t just about having two nests – the timing between layings and the track widths indicate we have two different mother turtles nesting,” said Dr. Kong-kiat Kittiwattanawong, a marine ecosystem specialist.
Local community members will help monitor the relocated eggs, which are expected to hatch in approximately 55-60 days. The successful nesting event marks a positive development for leatherback conservation efforts in Thailand’s Andaman Sea region. -819 (TNA)
