Mass Turtle Death In India

More than 900 Olive Ridley turtles have been found dead along the coast of the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, according to reports.  Wildlife groups said trawlers fishing illegally had failed to use devices to prevent turtles from getting entangled in nets. 

Experts say such a large number of turtles has not been found dead on the southern Indian coast for 10 years.  Olive Ridleys are endangered in India. They are one of five species of marine turtle to mate and nest on its shores.

Tens of thousands of Olive Ridley turtles come to the shores of eastern and southern India to lay eggs every year between January and April.  In 2003, more than 3,000 Olive Ridleys were found dead on the eastern coast of Orissa state.