01 Aug 2015
Velassaru, Maldives is excited to announce that the 124 green sea turtle eggs laid on its beach in late-May hatched on July 23 after 58 days of incubation. It was a great treat for the resort to be able to witness this amazing event, as green sea turtles usually lay their eggs on remote islands away from inhabitants.
One of seven species of the marine reptile, green sea turtles are mainly found in tropical and sub-tropical zones, but will often migrate hundreds of miles to forage or nest. Upon reaching maturity, females habitually return to the beach of their own birth in order to nest- a feat exceptional even within the animal kingdom, and one that Rudi Palm, Base Manager for the resort's IMMERSION Dive Centre, sees as reflective of Velassaru's dedication to environmental sustainability.
“It's a very good sign that the turtles feel safe laying their eggs on our beach, and we're delighted to see a successful hatching here. We've been looking forward to this day since the eggs were discovered.”
Still, he notes that the species remains under threat, both from natural predators and human interaction, with only 1 in 1000 hatchlings surviving to adulthood.
In an effort to combat this statistic, Velassaru has introduced new protectionist activities to its ongoing CSR commitments, including securing those environments suitable for nesting and monitoring for future eggs and hatchlings. The resort hopes that this will make the island even safer for these amazing marine creatures and assist in the worldwide conservation effort. Velassaru eagerly anticipates the day when these hatchlings will return to nest in the future.
You can check out our turtles racing to the sea here: https://video-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hvideo-xat1/v/t43.1792-2/11535995_1174920115867131_986920004_n.mp4?efg=eyJybHIiOjE1MDAsInJsYSI6MTAyNH0%3D&rl=1500&vabr=570&oh=34922b87eab0bd626857e8a50573fa56&oe=55BB9CDA
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Image Gallery:
www.velassaru.com/imagebank/home.html
Notes to Editors:
Velassaru Maldives – Velassaru by Universal Resorts is a sophisticated resort that pairs contemporary luxury with the natural beauty of the Maldives. This 21 acre coral island is situated in the quiet South Malé Atoll and is possibly the finest local resort accessible via speedboat. With its pearl-dust beaches, turquoise lagoon and myriad coconut groves this five star resort boasts 129 intimate villas and bungalows along with the highest quality of dining, leisure and spa facilities.
For more information including enquiries about press trips contact:
Good Results PR
Maya Mahir
Email: mayam@goodresults.co.uk
Tel: + 44 (0) 20 3397 5180
