Watch out for Sea Turtles, boats can be DEADLY

The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) has recently had to respond to a number of reports of injured or dead sea turtle. Upon further investigation it has been evident that these creatures have succumbed to injuries sustained by speeding vessels.

The Department would like to take this opportunity to remind all motorised vessel operators that speed limits, particularly within the confines of the National Parks systems, are strictly to be adhered to for the safety of guests, non-motorised vessels (such as kayakers) and importantly, the safety of the sea creatures.

As sea turtle are required to regularly come up for air, they are vulnerable to speeding vessel strikes. These strikes are often fatal or gravely harm the animal. Tour and vessel operators rely on the natural environment as the main source of their livelihood and as such the Department would like to encourage that responsible boating be priortisied to ensure environmental stewardship and sustainable interaction with the natural environment.

Should you encounter an injured or dead sea turtle, please contact the DECR at 338-4170 or environment@gov.tc