PORT DICKSON: A total of 46 baby hawksbill turtles were rescued by the public after being found wandering along the coastal area of Batu 3, Jalan Pantai Bagan Pinang.

       Negri Sembilan Fisheries Department director Halimi Abu Hanip said the hatchlings were found by a family who happened to be there.

       “Their swift action in rescuing the baby turtles to be released immediately into the sea is a commendable effort.

       “It is the third such incident in Port Dickson this year, with the second on Sept 11.

       “It is normal for baby turtles to crawl out of their nest to go to the sea.

       “Turtles lay their eggs throughout the year but most frequently from March to September,” he said.

       Halimi added that the department, together with a registered turtle egg collector Hishamudin Abd Manap, inspected the turtle nests at the location and found two dead baby turtles and 48 eggs.

       He said all the eggs were then brought to the hatchery centre at Glory Beach Resort to be incubated.

       Halimi also said the department will install signboards in the coastal area to remind the public to immediately report any turtle findings to the authorities for further action.