219 Baby Hawksbill Turtles Released into the Wild

On 24 and 25 May 2024, the Nirwana Gardens Turtle Hatchery, together with staff and guests,
safely released 219 Hawksbill Turtle hatchlings into the sea at the Banyu Biru Villas beach
vicinity. The third clutch of eggs discovered on 2 May 2024, is scheduled to hatch between 29 June to 4 July 2024.

Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by maintaining healthy coral reefs. They feed on sponges, controlling sponge populations, and preventing overgrowth that could smother coral reefs. These species are among the most critically endangered species globally, primarily due to habitat loss, pollution, and poaching. With only a few thousand nesting females remaining worldwide, each new clutch of eggs is a vital contribution to the survival of the species.

To foster a safe and nurturing environment for hatchlings, Nirwana Gardens conducts frequent beach cleaning activities with staff volunteers, all with a common goal of coastal conservation in mind and protection of sea turtles. Staff volunteers from the last beach cleaning held on 2 May 2024 successfully collected 240kg of trash from both coastal and inland areas of the Banyu Biru Villas beach vicinity.

Through dedicated efforts, staff of Nirwana Gardens continue to work tirelessly to protect these endangered species that are listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as well as to educate
visitors and the local community about the importance of the conservation of this species for future generations.