Rediscovering nesting activities of Lepidochelys olivacea along the Dakshina Kannada Coast Karnataka West Coast of India

This study documents the first recorded nesting of Lepidochelys olivacea along the Dakshina Kannada coast in 18 years, marking a significant milestone in regional sea turtle conservation. Between December 2023 to March 2024, 21 nests were recorded across six beaches, with Sasihithlu Beach (Mangalore) contributing 62% of nesting events and the highest density (2.36 nests/km). Nesting occurred even on isolated and commercially active beaches such as Panambur and Tannirbhavi. Nesting was observed across all lunar phases, deviating from the previously reported full moon preference, suggesting potential adaptive nesting strategies. Artificial lighting along the coast may influence this behaviour. Clutch size ranged from 71 to 135 eggs, with a positive correlation between egg weight and diameter. The average incubation period was 49 days (± 2.28), decreasing to 45 days for later-season nests. A moderately positive correlation was found between nest depth and hatching success. A negative correlation was observed between hatching success and distance from estuarine mouths, suggesting more favourable conditions closer to the estuary. In-situ nests recorded higher hatching (58.93%) and emergence (41.17%) rates than relocated nests, although a few relocated nests exhibited high hatching success (up to 98%). Identified threats along the study area include seawall construction, beach armouring, unsustainable fishing, ghost net entanglement, artificial illumination, pollution, and predation by feral dogs. These anthropogenic pressures were addressed through awareness campaigns, community involvement, and beach clean-up drives. This study offers baseline data for future research and supports the formulation of region-specific conservation strategies aimed at protecting Lepidochelys olivacea and its nesting habitats along the Dakshina Kannada coast.