DENR: 105 Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings released in Zamboanga del Norte

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said on Wednesday that 105 Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings were released into the sea in Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte, on January 15.

According to DENR Zamboanga Peninsula, the release was an effort by the officials of Barangay Patawag, the local community, and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office.

The DENR said that the hatchlings were from the local Marine Turtle Hatchery and Rescue Center, which provides a secure environment for turtle eggs to hatch before they can be released into the ocean as part of conservation efforts. 

The department considers the Olive Ridley turtle as endangered, “as the species continues to face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and human activities such as poaching and illegal fishing.''

According to the World Wildlife Fund, the Olive Ridley turtle is known for its shell with an olive green hue. But they nest in very few places; hence, any disturbance to even one nest could lead to huge impacts on the entire population. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/VBL, GMA Integrated News