Baby Leatherback Turtles Begin Their Journey into the Andaman Sea from Thai Mueang Beach

Dozens of newly hatched leatherback sea turtles made their first journey into the Andaman Sea from Thai Mueang Beach on the evening of July 24. The release was broadcast live on the official Facebook page of Khao Lampi–Hat Thai Mueang National Park.

Park officials did not specify the exact number of hatchlings, but confirmed they came from the third nest laid this season by a female leatherback turtle affectionately named Namo. The turtle returned to Thai Mueang Beach several times in May to lay eggs, and this marks the second group of her offspring released into the sea this month. The first release took place on July 12.

Leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are the largest living species of sea turtle. Adult animals can weigh well over 100 kilograms, yet their hatchlings emerge from the nest only a few centimeters long before beginning the dangerous journey to the ocean.

The national park now regularly organizes public hatchling release events to promote marine conservation and environmental awareness. However, the July 24 program was shortened because of unfavorable weather conditions.

Those interested in following future turtle releases and conservation activities can do so through the national park’s official Facebook page.

Khao Lampi–Hat Thai Mueang National Park, located in Phang Nga Province, remains open throughout the low season, although visitors are advised to consider weather conditions before traveling.

Meanwhile, the Similan Islands, another important nesting area for sea turtles, remain closed until mid-October as part of their annual environmental recovery program. Maya Bay, located in the Phi Phi Islands, will also close for its seasonal ecological rehabilitation from August 1, remaining off-limits for two months.