Excited over starting of the mass nesting, wildlife experts feel the unique phenomenon would continue for some more days. "The condition of the beach as well as the weather are very conducive. The mass nesting stared early this time," said divisional forest officer (DFO), Berhampur, Asish Kumar Behera.

The early start of nesting in the rookery assumed significance as it did not occur near the river mouth last year, causing much concern among the wildlife activists.

The mass nesting has not started in other rookeries like Gahiramatha and the Devi river mouth, the sources said.

"We have taken several measures to protect the eggs and ensure safe nesting. Steps have been taken to control the crowd with the involvement of the villagers," said the DFO. The entire 4.5-km stretch of beach is fenced to prevent interference of visitors.

"For the first time, we have involved the villagers to restrict the visitors to the nesting site," he said.

The villagers of Podamapet, Gokharakuda, Prayagi, Gokharakuda and Kantiagada are roped in, he said. "We have earmarked a site outside the fencing on the beach for the visitors to witness the mass nesting," the forest officer added.

Around 200 persons, including forest personnel, wildlife activists and nearby villagers are engaged for 24x7 protection of the Olive Ridleys and the eggs. "The protective measures would continue for the next 50 days till the hatching takes place," the DFO said.