119 hawksbill turtle hatchlings released from Sisters' Islands Marine Park hatchery

NParks also relocated a new clutch of hawksbill turtle eggs from East Coast Park to the hatchery. PHOTOS: DESMOND LEE/FACEBOOK

SINGAPORE - Some 119 critically endangered hawksbill turtle hatchlings were released from Sisters' Islands Marine Park Turtle Hatchery on Sunday (Aug 23).

In a Facebook post, National Development Minister Desmond Lee said the turtles were released after their vital statistics were recorded, adding that the statistics will enhance the National Parks Board's (NParks) turtle conservation research.

On Wednesday (Aug 26), NParks also relocated a new clutch of 132 hawksbill turtle eggs from East Coast Park to the hatchery, where they will have a higher chance of survival away from human activity, light pollution and predators.

"I hope these baby turtles will grow and return to our shores soon," Mr Lee added.

Most turtle nesting activities at East Coast Park and the Southern Islands take place every year between June and September. The eggs subsequently hatch after about two months, although only a handful from each clutch of 100 to 150 eggs survive until adulthood.

NParks assesses turtle nests that are found along Singapore's mainland beaches and around the Southern Islands. Nests at areas with high human traffic, in danger of predation, too close to the shoreline, or at areas that are too shallow, get relocated to the hatchery.

Scientists at the hatchery collect important data, such as the number of hatchlings, rate of hatching success and the turtles' health status.

The hatchery on Small Sister's Island was opened in Sept 2018 and is Singapore's first. It comprises a turtle field station and incubation sand pit area.

About 300 turtles hatched there during its first year in operation.

Members of the public who encounter nesting turtles are advised to avoid disturbing the nest and the turtle, and to contact NParks for further assistance on 1800-471-7300.

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