Hawksbill turtles hatched and released to the sea at Sentosa's Tanjong Beach
SINGAPORE — Sentosa’s Tanjong Beach saw a batch of hawksbill turtles hatched and released into the sea on Wednesday morning (4 September).
A total of 100 eggs were hatched on Tuesday and emerged from the sands at around 10pm. Staff from the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) carried out measurements and checks on the turtle hatchlings before they were released into the sea at around 7am on Wednesday.
The hawksbill turtle nest was discovered at the beach on 14 July, and SDC erected a protective barrier to keep the eggs safe from natural predators, such as monitor lizards and crabs, and other potential disturbances.
This is the fifth time since 1996 that eggs of the hawksbill turtles have hatched in Sentosa. Previous turtle hatchings were also recorded in 2010, January 2018 and September 2018 at Tanjong Beach.
The hawksbill turtle is internationally acknowledged as a critically-endangered species. It has been affected by sea pollution and loss of nesting beaches to reclamation and other land uses. Many turtles have died after being accidentally caught in fishing nets.
Despite this, poachers continue to hunt the turtle for its attractive shell. Some even dig up the eggs to cook and eat them. Hatchlings have also been known to be sold on the black market as aquarium pets.
Sentosa visitors who spot a turtle nest on the islands should contact SDC at 1800-SENTOSA (7368672). Should they see a turtle laying the eggs, they are advised to keep their distance and not shine lights on the turtle, as it could confuse or scare it away.
For more information on what to do during a sighting, visit this webpage.
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