Wildlife
A short walk from Villa Estuary, the Induruwa Sea Turtle Hatchery is one of Sri Lanka's most important and moving conservation projects. Watching hatchling turtles make their first journey to the Indian Ocean is one of those travel experiences that stays with you for the rest of your life — and your visit directly supports the conservation of five endangered species.
Five Species of Turtle
Five species of sea turtle nest along Sri Lanka's Southern Coast: the Loggerhead, Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback. All five are classified as threatened or endangered. The hatcheries collect eggs from the beach — where they are vulnerable to predators and poachers — and incubate them safely until they hatch. The baby turtles are then released directly into the ocean, dramatically improving their survival odds.
What Happens at the Hatchery
At the hatchery you can see turtles at every stage — from freshly laid eggs in the incubation tanks to adult turtles being rehabilitated from injuries before release. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, and can explain the threats facing each species and what is being done to protect them. Evening visits give you the best chance of witnessing a release, when the hatchlings instinctively follow the moonlight towards the sea.
Your Impact
Your entrance fee goes directly to funding the hatchery operations — paying for the staff who patrol the beach at night, the incubation facilities, and the rehabilitation of injured adult turtles. Every visitor makes a tangible difference. Many hatcheries also allow you to sponsor the release of a clutch of eggs, and you receive a certificate confirming the number of turtles released in your name — a wonderful memento and a meaningful contribution.
The turtle hatchery is a short walk from Villa Estuary. Our team can arrange the best time to visit for hatchling releases — typically in the evening.
