One kilometre stretch of beach at Kosgoda (6 33’ N, 80 02’ E) in the south-western coast of the island was selected for the study (Figure 1). Turtle rookery at Kosgoda covers a 4 km stretch of beach close to the Colombo - Galle main road, in a highly populated area (population at Kosgoda 7,500). The coastline presents a range of anthropogenic influence from urban to near wilderness areas. A large tourist hotel is located adjacent to the beach together with other developments and disturbances.