Last Updated on July 31, 2024
The shores of Honnavara taluk in Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, India, are more than just picturesque beaches—they are crucial nesting grounds for sea turtles. However, these ancient mariners face numerous threats to their survival. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of a group of local fishermen, forest department, environmentalists Dr. Mahabaleshwar Hegde of Sayimane, Dr. Prakash Mesta, a marine ecologist from Honnavara, and Maruti Gouda from Kumta, there is hope for these vulnerable creatures. Their relentless work to protect turtle eggs until they hatch is a testament to human compassion and environmental stewardship.
Guardians of the Shore

Dr. Mahabaleshwar Hegde has been passionate about saving sea turtles for many years. Alongside Dr. Prakash Mesta, a renowned marine ecologist, and Maruti Gouda, he has been working tirelessly to ensure the survival of turtle hatchlings.
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Their efforts span across Honnavar, Kumta, Ankola, and Karwar, where they create awareness among local communities about the importance of protecting these creatures.

Why Are Sea Turtles Important?
Sea turtles play a critical role in maintaining the health of our oceans. They help balance marine ecosystems by performing several key functions. For instance, they control jellyfish populations, maintain healthy seagrass beds, and facilitate nutrient cycling. When sea turtles feed on jellyfish, they help prevent jellyfish overpopulation, which can have negative impacts on fish populations. Additionally, seagrass beds, which are important breeding and developmental grounds for many marine species, are kept healthy by the grazing activities of green sea turtles”, says Dr. Mahabaleshwar Hegde, Sayimane, Environmentalist.
The Threats to Sea Turtles
Sea turtles face numerous threats, both natural and human-made. Predators, poachers, and habitat destruction pose significant risks to their eggs and hatchlings. Human activities such as coastal development, pollution, and fishing practices further endanger these ancient mariners. Protecting their nesting sites is crucial for their survival.
The Efforts to Save Sea Turtles

Dr. Hegde, Dr. Mesta, and their team have developed several strategies to safeguard turtle eggs:
- Nest Relocation: When eggs are laid in unsafe locations, they carefully relocate the nests to protected areas.
- Monitoring and Patrolling: They regularly patrol the beaches to protect nests from predators and poachers.
- Community Involvement: Educating and involving local communities, especially fishermen, to become stewards of the environment.
Community Awareness

Raising awareness is a cornerstone of their mission. Dr. Hegde, Dr. Mesta, and Maruti Gouda conduct workshops and seminars for fishermen and local communities. They teach the importance of sea turtles and how to protect them. This grassroots approach has led to a significant increase in local support and participation.
The Impact
The efforts of Dr. Hegde, Dr. Mesta, Maruti Gouda, and the fishermen are yielding positive results. There has been a noticeable increase in the number of hatchlings reaching the sea. The community’s active involvement has also led to a broader understanding and appreciation of marine conservation.

The story of sea turtle conservation in Honnavara is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals and communities can have on preserving our natural world. Through their tireless efforts, Dr. Mahabaleshwar Hegde, Dr. Prakash Mesta, Maruti Gouda, and the local fishermen are not only saving sea turtles but also inspiring others to take action. Their work ensures that future generations can continue to witness the majestic sight of sea turtles returning to the shores of Honnavara to lay their eggs, perpetuating a cycle of life that has existed for millions of years.