Birds and turtles attract visitors to Rushikulya

Apart from Olive Ridley sea turtles, migratory birds in recent times have been attracting people to the rookery at the Rushkulya river mouth.

Sea turtles have started arriving for mass nesting near Rushikulya river mouth from the last week of November. The avian guests are being sighted for the last one month.

Scores of migratory birds, including bar-headed goose have been sighted. Forest officials have been asked to keep extra vigil to protect the birds.

A drive to sensitise fishermen towards bird safety has been launched. A ban on fishing by trawler is also in force.

Forest Department has also sought cooperation of wildlife activitiests, local NGOs, industries and Gopalpur Port authorities to lend a hand in protecting turtles.

Apart from Rushikulya, Bahuda river mouth is also known for Olive Ridley nesting.