Rare Olive Ridley nesting at Al Khabourah beach

On Sunday morning, Qasabiyat Al Hawasna Beach in Al Khabourah became the site of a rare and extraordinary environmental event. An endangered olive ridley turtle came ashore to lay its eggs, marking the first occurrence of its kind in 30 years. The event highlights the region’s rich marine biodiversity, according to Shaikh Hampud Al Kharousi, head of the Environment Centre in Al Suwaiq.

After completing the nesting process, the turtle gracefully returned to the sea. A local fisherman, who witnessed the turtle burying its eggs, promptly alerted the authorities.

Shaikh Al Kharousi elaborated on the centre’s swift response saying: “Our team immediately identified the nesting site and implemented protective measures to ensure the safety of the eggs. The area has been fenced off and marked with warning signs to prevent any disturbances to the eggs or their habitat.”

He added that the site will be monitored daily for the next two weeks to ensure the eggs remain undisturbed and the hatchlings emerge safely.

The olive ridley turtle, named for its olive-coloured shell, is one of the smallest sea turtles, measuring 60–70 cm and weighing up to 50 kg. Known for its synchronised nesting behaviour, known as arribada, large groups of olive ridleys typically nest in tropical and subtropical waters. However, their population has been severely threatened by habitat destruction, pollution and fishing practices, making conservation efforts critical.

This rare nesting event is a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect Oman’s biodiversity and foster awareness about marine conservation. It also calls upon communities to take an active role in preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.