A leatherback turtle returning to lay eggs once again in Thai Muang beach

Phang Nga – Officials from Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Muang National Park, in collaboration with the Marine National Parks Operation Center 2 Phuket, inspected the nesting behavior of sea turtles and discovered traces of a hawksbill turtle laying eggs in the protected area on December 27, 2023, at 01:00 AM. This marks the third nesting site found in Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Muang National Park (fourth for the season).

A leatherback turtle returning to lay eggs once again in Thai Muang beach

However, this time, the markings of the mother turtle were not distinct. Preliminary measurements revealed an approximate chest width of 70-80 cm and a total flipper width of about 140-150 cm. Following local wisdom, authorities located and examined the turtle eggs and found that the nest depth was 80 cm, with a width of 29 cm. In total, 122 eggs were discovered, comprising 80 viable eggs, 42 infertile eggs, and turtle egg size averaging 5.08 cm. The egg-laying coordinates were UTM 47P 415180 935780.

A leatherback turtle returning to lay eggs once again in Thai Muang beach
A leatherback turtle returning to lay eggs once again in Thai Muang beach

These turtle eggs were carefully relocated for hatching in a controlled area near the tourist service center, elevated to protect against high tides. Park officials will supervise and protect the eggs from continuous disturbance by animals or humans. It is estimated that the turtle eggs will hatch naturally between February 19-24, 2027.”

Photos courtesy of Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Muang National Park

A leatherback turtle returning to lay eggs once again in Thai Muang beach