Pathways to Conservation: Addressing Threats and Vulnerabilities of Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) at Kolavipalam, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) are encountering substantial threats and vulnerabilities at their nesting site in Kolavipalam, Kozhikode, Kerala, India. This study seeks to evaluate the current status of Olive Ridley turtle, identify principal threats, and propose appropriate conservation measures. Data obtained from the local NGO, Theeram Prakriti Samrakshana Samiti, indicate a declining trend in the number of nesting turtles and hatching success rates over the past 24 years. The Garret ranking method was utilized to rank the primary factors contributing to the decline, with sand mining identified as the most significant threat, followed by coastal erosion, sea wall construction, climate change, incidental catch in trawl nets, tourism activities, and pollution. The study underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive conservation model that integrates community-based approaches with stringent law enforcement and habitat protection. The proposed framework emphasizes inclusive, locally-driven efforts involving primary stakeholders such as local communities, fishermen, with support from NGOs, environmentalists and researchers, alongside institutional bodies like the Forest Department, Department of Tourism, and municipalities. Key components of the framework include capacity building, conservation actions, sustainable eco-tourism initiatives, research and monitoring, and policy and institutional support. The ultimate objective is to ensure sustainable development and biodiversity protection through science-backed and community-centred conservation of Olive Ridley turtles. Future research should focus on analysing the effects of rising temperatures on nesting and hatchling ratios using advanced technologies, developing innovative solutions for reducing pollution and human impacts, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of conservation efforts through combined efforts of government and NGOs.