Volunteers

Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project (KSTCP) is proud to host national & international volunteers who play an important role in supporting the daily operations of the project and contributing to local community development initiatives. Volunteers actively participate in a wide range of conservation activities, including turtle nest protection, hatchling releases, beach patrols, and visitor awareness programmes.

In return for their contribution, volunteers gain valuable hands-on experience and practical knowledge in sea turtle biology and conservation practices. They also have the opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka’s coastal ecosystems, environmental challenges, and traditional community life in Kosgoda. Through close interaction with local staff and residents, volunteers develop cross-cultural understanding while making a positive impact on both wildlife conservation and community wellbeing.

Volunteer placements are flexible and are available for periods ranging from one week to twelve weeks, allowing participants to choose a duration that suits their interests and availability. These placements offer a meaningful opportunity for individuals who wish to combine travel with responsible conservation work and community engagement in Sri Lanka.

ACTIVITIES

On this project, you will help to support the daily care and conservation of turtles by taking part in a variety of activities, such as those listed below

Turtle Care

The sanctuary is home to around 11 long-term resident turtles, including two rare albino turtle. As a volunteer, you'll help feed the turtles and may have the opportunity to help gently clean their shells of any algae or debris that, in the ocean, would otherwise be cleaned off by reef fish and other organisms. You'll also help care for hatchlings collected in the morning, spending some time in the tanks before being released in the early evening to avoid predators.

Turtle Release

A highlight for many volunteers is on the beach at dusk, when you may have the opportunity to release turtle hatchlings into the ocean! An evening release means fewer predators are around, and you'll help further safeguard these little ones by helping to ward off any remaining threats, such as birds or dogs. By doing so, you'll increase the likelihood of the turtles reaching the ocean unharmed before their true journey begins!

Burying Turtle Eggs

In order to combat the consumption of turtle eggs in the region, the project team offer a higher rate for any eggs found by fishermen to dissuade them from selling the eggs to restaurants. Volunteers carefully bury these eggs in the sand at the sanctuary, where they will hopefully hatch into healthy baby turtles before being released into the ocean, beginning their journey to adulthood, where they may one day return to the beach to nest themselves.

Tank Cleaning

With several long-term resident turtles and holding tanks for the hatchlings, the sanctuary needs to keep these tanks clean to maintain a clean environment for their well-being. Volunteers will help with the regular changing of water pumped in via the sea and use brushes, squeegees and even coconuts to ensure the tanks are spotless before they are refilled.

Cleaning & Constructing Hatcheries

With turtles nesting and the hatcheries in use every year, volunteers are sometimes needed to extend current hatcheries or construct a new hatchery area. This is not a guaranteed activity, but cleaning the hatcheries will be! Ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the hatcheries are paramount. You may also be involved in changing the hatchery sand; this happens every six months to avoid harmful diseases or bacteria forming.

Beach Clean-Ups

Over the years, pollution, particularly plastic pollution, has caused significant harm not only to sea turtles but also to all marine creatures. So, weekly, you and your group will head off down the beach with rubbish bags in hand and collect marine debris, plastic pollution, and other waste that poses severe threats to adult turtles and hatchlings, reducing the risks of entanglement, ingestion, and nest disturbance. The litter will be disposed of by the local council and recycled where possible.

Sanctuary Tours

The sanctuary offers guided tours of the tanks and hatcheries to educate and inspire the local community about turtle conservation. Small contributions paid by the guests go straight back into the project. As a volunteer, you'll help lead engaging and educational tours, making a difference by spreading awareness and knowledge and motivating the public, especially younger generations, to become turtle guardians. 

 

Teaching English

Depending on the time of year you join this project, you may have the opportunity to teach English to local school children or community members who visit the sanctuary. Improved English skills can be a valuable asset for many Sri Lankans, whether they are children or older community members. This community outreach not only helps individuals but also supports the project's mission by uplifting the community and promoting awareness of turtle conservation

 

ACCOMMODATION

 

ACCOMMODATION

During your time on the project, you will stay in a designated volunteer house next to the turtle sanctuary and beach. You will be assigned a twin or triple-share room, shared on a same-sex basis, except for couples and families who will be accommodated together. Each bedroom is equipped with air conditioning, and the house has bathrooms with hot showers and Western toilets. Elsewhere in the home is the comfortable communal area where you'll share meals and can socialise or relax after a busy day.

 

 

MEALS & BEVERAGES

You will receive three meals daily and bottled water on this project. Breakfast consists of fresh fruit, bread, jams, and eggs, and you will select your lunch from a menu (items include sandwiches, soups, and omelettes). In the evening, your dinner will likely consist of typical Sri Lankan dishes such as curry (fish or chicken), rice, and vegetables, each served in a buffet style. Dietary requirements can be catered for, but please let us know before your arrival.