In previous weeks, we have discussed many steps that are being taken on land to protect sea turtles, however this week, we would to focus on how we can protect sea turtles in the open ocean. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), vessel strikes are one of the most common causes of sea turtle injury and death in the United States. In Florida alone, injuries consistent with vessel strikes are observed in 20-30 percent of stranded sea turtles.
In the southeast, adult sea turtles are particularly vulnerable to vessel strikes during nesting season as they often congregate near nesting beaches.
NOAA has offered the following tips for vessel operators to help avoid hitting sea turtles:
- Always be alert
- Wear polarized sunglasses to better see marine animals
- Follow speed zones and other signage
- Travel at the safest minimum speed in areas that sea turtles are known to frequent
Should you encounter a dead, sick or injured sea turtle, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) Alert Hotline at (888) 404-3922 or email Dr. Allen Foley (State Coordinator) at [email protected].
Note: The below photos are credited to Sea Turtle Adventures from the City of Boyton Beach, Florida.
-Sabrina Robertson
Public Information Officer