
What Is The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary?
The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary is a turtle conservation centre that was set up by the government to research and protect the four main species of turtles that nest in Malaysia. The four species are the Olive-Ridley, Leatherback, Green, and Hawksbill turtles. These turtles are a vital part of the local marine ecosystem but are endangered due to various threats.
Some of the threats that they face include drift nets from fishing boats and marine predators. The Turtle Sanctuary has a few initiatives aimed at conserving the turtle population including educating the public about these gentle creatures and acting as a hatchery for the eggs.
In the middle of the year from April to September, the turtles land on the beach to lay their eggs. This is when the personnel at the centre collect the eggs to protect and incubate them in the hatchery. When the eggs hatch, the baby turtles are then released back into the sea. The sanctuary is open to the public every day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. except on Mondays, and entry is free.