Guarding the guardians of sea: The Pearl Protectors celebrates Turtle Patrol 2025

By Subhashi Tania 

In a heartwarming gathering held on 25 April at the Mount Lavinia Hotel, a movement rooted in resilience, hope, and science found its moment of celebration. Volunteers, government representatives, and conservationists came together for the Turtle Patrol Volunteer Recognition Ceremony organised by The Pearl Protectors, a tribute to the unsung heroes who spent their nights under the stars, safeguarding the next generation of sea turtles.

An inspirational welcoming note shared by The Pearl Protectors Executive Director Muditha Katuwawala. “The 2025 Turtle Patrol spanned 84 nights from January to March, mobilising 210 passionate volunteers across Dehiwala North, Dehiwala South, and Mount Lavinia beaches. Our goal was to conserve 18,000 sea turtle eggs,” he added.

The Turtle Patrol involved more than 200 volunteers in total, and 107 individuals were officially recognised during the event for their exceptional contribution.

This event also marked the official launch of the Report on Enhancing Sea Turtle Nesting Survival 2025. The sea turtle patrolling took place from 6 January to 31 March, covering 84 days. Daily patrols were conducted, excluding adverse weather conditions like heavy rainfall.

A season of triumph

21,389 sea turtle eggs were conserved, far exceeding the expected target, a perfect example of relentless dedication, careful methodology, and strategic partnerships, notably with the Sri Lanka Coast Guard. Patrolling ran from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., braving the rain and restless seas, ensuring every nest, every egg, and every hatchling had a fighting chance. This year also marked a substantial increase compared to 2024: from 130 nests to 202 nests. The patrols were structured, strategically trained, and data-driven, supported by a dedicated citizen’s science data logging app.

The app used to collect and analyse data was run by volunteers themselves, showcasing a strong citizen science model and demonstrating how community-led tech innovation supports real-time environmental monitoring.

Conservation through science and heart

Sea turtles, some dating back over 100 million years, are critical to maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Yet in Sri Lanka, sea turtles’ threats range from poaching and plastic pollution to light disturbances and habitat loss.

Noise and light pollution, especially from beachside restaurants, disrupted natural nesting patterns. Flash photography, disco lights, and loud music confused and even harmed turtles and hatchlings.

Observed behavioural changes included shorter nesting durations, false crawls, and increased nest abandonment, a direct result of human disturbances such as music and lighting.

The report also draws attention to worsening urban coastal challenges including dumping and burning of garbage, discharge of wastewater to the sea, poaching, encroachment, and the loss of safe nesting grounds, which demand urgent conservation action.

Voices from the field

The event’s emotional high came with addresses from key stakeholders. Sanjeewa Mahadurage from the Department of Wildlife Conservation spoke passionately about the need for stronger beach regulations.

He also acknowledged that the Department of Wildlife Conservation continues to act as a pilot department in many of these efforts but faces a lack of resources.

Pango’s Bunwiches Founder Oshan Samaranayake, Spirit of Liebs Founder Isabel-Liebs Bonk and Future Fibers Head of Operations Venusha Tharinda shared how private sector engagement can amplify conservation impact.

Awards and gratitude

Recognition followed swiftly. Volunteers were awarded for their contributions, with special recognition given to those who showed outstanding leadership and perseverance. Lieutenant Commander Himasha Wanasingha, representing the SLCG, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of collaboration in safeguarding marine life. Turtle Patrol Project Lead Isuru Egodawela emphasised, “It is not just the turtles we are saving. It is the soul of our oceans, and in turn, ourselves.” He also thanked the students of the Ocean University for their key support, then Sugar Beach, and The Station Restaurant for their logistical contributions.

The “exit-to-nature” approach to education and conservation was also highlighted, focusing on experiential learning methods that connect young minds to marine conservation through active participation.

The 2025 Turtle Patrol stands reminding us that when communities come together, guided by science and fuelled by passion, even ancient mariners like the sea turtles can have a fighting chance.