Endangered Marine Life in Sabah in Borneo

Borneo is home to many endangered species.

Turtles in Borneo

Green and hawksbill turtles are now endangered species. The Turtle Island Park, which is home to both of them, is located 40 km off Sabah’s East coast. The nearest town is Sandakan. It consists of several islands. The turtles lay eggs throughout the year, although the best times are between July to October. The turtles usually come ashore to lay their eggs during the night before returning to sea during the night or early morning. In order not to disturb the turtles unreasonably the park has introduced a sensible policy to restrict tourist visits to only one landing of turtles. This assists the turtles to nest more undisturbed. The park has set up special turtle hatcheries too.

Pulau Bakkungan Kecil

This is the largest island and its main attraction is green turtles.

Pulau Selingan

The second largest island of the park provides also accommodation and a restaurant. Its main marine life attractions are also green turtles.

Pulau Gulisan

The island offers both hawksbill turtles and green turtles.

Best time to visit the Turtle Island
Best time to visit is probably between July and October.

Getting there
Getting there may involve quite a lengthy journey by boat from Sandakan, the boat ride may take between one to three hours.