Abstract:
The global sea turtle population is threatened due to anthropogenic activities. The
coastline of Sri Lanka, including Madiha and Polhena beaches, provides critical
habitats for five species of sea turtles. Their popularity as tourist destinations further
highlights the need for effective conservation in these areas. This study aimed to
assess the influence of demographic factors on knowledge, attitudes, and practices
(KAP) of the local community of these areas towards sea turtle conservation. A
mixed-methods survey was conducted among 100 locals from Madiha and Polhena,
selected through random sampling and categorized into three age groups: 18-30
(33%), 31-50 (34%), and 51-70 (33%). A structured questionnaire, validated through
a pilot study (n=40), including 19 items assessing demographics (5), knowledge (7),
attitudes (3), and practices (4) of locals regarding sea turtle conservation was used for
data collection. Informed consent was obtained from all participants before data
collection. Data were analysed using the software IBM SPSS Statistics Version 20,
converting responses into numerical scores. KAP scores were calculated by summing
the respective items. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-squre,
Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, Spearman’s correlation, and regression analyses.
p < 0.05 was set as the statistical significance. The structured questionnaire
demonstrated strong validity and reliability (Internal validity, Cronbach’s
alpha=0.785; CVR=1.00; Face validity, Kappa=0.689, p=0.002; 73.8% of variance
indicated by PCA). The older age group (51-70) had a significantly higher knowledge
level (mean= 7.88 ± 2.10, p=0.006) compared to other groups. Gender-based
assessment of knowledge and attitude scores showed that males possessed higher
knowledge (mean 8.26 ± 2.29, p<0.0001) and more positive attitudes (p=0.007) than
females. Both the old age group (p=0.026) and the long-term residents (p=0.001)
showed greater knowledge about sea turtles at Madiha and Polhena. Moreover, both
knowledge (β=0.45, p=0.004) and attitudes (β=0.39, p=0.007) significantly predicted
conservation practices. Higher knowledge (OR=2.3, p=0.004) and positive attitudes
(OR=1.9, p=0.007) contributed to the willingness to participate in sea turtle
conservation. Knowledge and attitudes showed a greater influence on enhancing
conservation practices among the local residents. Raising awareness among young
individuals, females, and new residents may support community-based sea turtle
conservation at Madiha and Polhena areas.
