Turtle release
At Kirana Retreat, our turtle release programme serves as a beacon of hope for the survival of these magnificent sea creatures. Situated on the beautiful island of Sumbawa, a nesting haven for 6 out of the 7 world’s sea turtle species, our mission is twofold.
First, we strive to ensure the survival of as many baby turtles as possible. This is crucial considering the staggering statistic that, on average, only 1 in 1000 turtles grow to adulthood. Secondly, while it’s illegal to harm these marine animals or to sell and eat their eggs, the unfortunate reality is that turtle eggs are considered a delicacy in Indonesia.
That’s why education forms a crucial part of our programme. We focus on educating local communities as well as guests from all corners of the globe about the importance of turtles and why we should all be part of the effort to help their populations grow. From interactive discussions to the magical experience of releasing a baby turtle into the ocean, we provide comprehensive insight into these fascinating creatures.
Next turtle release
Release your own baby turtle
We understand that protecting sea turtles is not just a local issue but a global one. And so, we extend an invitation to you: come and be a part of this unforgettable experience. As you watch a tiny turtle make its way into the vast ocean, you’ll not only be filled with awe but also with a renewed sense of responsibility towards preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystem. The Kirana turtle release programme is not merely an activity; it’s a call to action, wrapped in an educational and deeply moving experience.
Support Us
Donations play a huge role in our conservation efforts. Your donations help us buy more turtle eggs from local markets, protecting future generations of these sea turtles.
Turtle release FAQs
What time of day are the turtles released?
The turtles usually take their first crawl into the ocean around the time the sun is setting. This is usually between 5 and 5:30 in the evening. The exact time can vary a bit because we plan it according to when the sun sets and what the tide is like.
Can guests participate in the turtle release?
Yes, guests are more than welcome to be part of this special moment. If you come to the beach in front of Kirana Retreat, we’ll teach you about our turtle programme. You’ll learn where your donations go and some cool facts about turtles that you probably didn’t know.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Absolutely, kids are welcome and they usually have a fantastic time. Releasing a baby turtle gives them a chance to learn about these amazing creatures and how important they are to our oceans.
How much does it cost to release a turtle?
We don’t charge you anything to release a turtle. But we do hope you’ll consider making a donation. We’re a not-for-profit group, which means all the money we get goes right back into saving more turtles. Your donation helps us buy more turtle eggs so we can keep doing what we’re doing.
What is the money used for?
When you donate, that money is used to buy more turtle eggs. Sometimes we get these eggs from local markets or even from people who were going to sell them illegally. By buying the eggs, we’re helping to keep future baby turtles safe.
How long does the turtle release take?
The whole thing takes about 25 minutes. First, we talk about turtles and what our programme does. Then we go over some things to keep in mind when you’re releasing your turtle. After that, we hand out the baby turtles and you get a chance to release them into the ocean.
Where do you get the baby turtles from?
Some baby turtles hatch right here at Kirana. Others are hatched at a different conservation spot about an hour away and then brought here. The eggs mostly come from beaches nearby or are bought from local markets and even poachers.
How old are the turtles when they're released?
The baby turtles are quite young when they’re released, usually just a few days old. We don’t keep them long because it’s best for them to start their ocean journey as soon as they can.
Are there any specific seasons for the turtle releases?
Some turtles lay eggs all year, but others only do it at certain times. Once the eggs are laid, they usually take a few months to hatch. So, the timing of the releases can vary.
Do I need to book in advance?
Nope, you don’t need to book ahead of time. Just check our calendar to see when the next turtle release is happening. Make sure you show up about 10 minutes early so you don’t miss anything.
