the Olive Ridley satellite telemetry experiment of the Wildlife Institute of India (wii) has failed, with signals not being received from any of the four turtles involved. The experiment was launched in the last week of August 2001, to unravel the mystery surrounding the whereabouts of Olive Ridleys that come to the state's shores every year and then just disappear after the nesting season is over. Three of the turtles transmitted signals for about two months and one for about four months. The wii officials are citing many reasons for the failure of the experiment. But most experts attribute it to the very high fishing pressures off the coasts of both Sri Lanka and Orissa. "While it is disappointing that data was not obtained for a longer period, several important lessons have already been learnt. We now know that not all turtles leave the coast of Orissa immediately after the nesting. This information will be helpful while formulating future conservation strategies," wii officials said.
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