Marine turtles have been roaming the world's oceans for about 190 million years. Today eight species of these ancient reptiles remain. Five of these species regularly visit the sandy beaches of Sri Lanka to nest.

Throughout the world, marine turtles are-hunted and butchered for their flesh and shells. Even female turtles that have hauled themselves up the beach to nest are killed and their eggs are stolen.

The result of this global over exploitation is that this highly successful group of animals, which managed to survive with the dinosaurs, has become critically endangered. All species of marine turtle face extinction if man does not cease his destructive activities.

• In Sri Lanka all sea turtles and their products are fully protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. Anyone found to be violating the conditions of this Ordinance is liable to face a substantial fine and/or prison term.
• Sea turtles are also protected under international law, therefore international trade in sea turtle products is illegal in countries, such as Sri Lanka, wchich are signatories to the CITES Convention. (CITES - Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species)

The small fishing village of REKAWA is a vital eco tourism venue located about 10 km east of the south coast town of Tangalla , Sri Lanka . Eco team works closely with the TCP (Turtle Conservation Project) in their 'Turtle watch' programme on the Rekawa beach where visitors can observe the ancient ritual of turtles coming ashore and laying eggs . This pioneering turtle conservation programme was started in 1996 to protect sea turtles in their natural habitat while providing an alternative source of income to people formerly dependent on the illegal collection of turtle eggs.