COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES ON SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION IN MADIHA AND POLHENA, SRI LANKA

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.