Monday, September 20, 2010

Terengganu Turtle Sanctuary

The fascinating turtles
Turtles laying eggs on the beach
Baby turtles on the beach
Baby turtles are released to the sea

Terengganu is famous for its giant leatherback turtles. In Rantau Abang, these wonderful creatures  come to the shores of Rantau Abang Beach to lay their eggs every year.

Unfortunately the turtles are under threat of extinction due to :

  • Exploitation and the sale of turtles and their eggs by local traders
  • Turtles dying when they're trapped in fishermans nets
  • Decline in places where turtles come to lay their eggs due to construction of resorts, hotels, houses  and industrial areas.
  • Pollution from oil spillage, industrial waste and garbage  which pose a threat to the turtles.
In an effort to preserve these creatures from the threat of extinction, turtle sanctuaries have been set up in Rantau Abang, Kemaman, Setiu, Pulau Redang and Kerteh.

These Turtle Sactuaries are set up to provide a safe place for turtles to hatch and  to grow before they are released to the sea. Research are also carried out to ensure the best conditions are provided for the conservation of the turtles.
    Don't forget to catch the next issue of  Terengganu travels for more interesting and fascinating facts  about Terengganu the land where nature embraces heritage.




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