Boat Propellers Cause Sea Turtle Deaths
Sea turtles have poor hearing and vision when out of the water and are vulnerable to boat strikes as they surface to breathe, bask near the surface, or forage in shallow areas or on prey near the sea surface. Adult sea turtles are at increased risk especially during breeding and nesting season.
Turtles can be injured and sometimes killed by blunt-force trauma from boat impact or propellers. Unfortunately, even sea turtles that do survive boat impacts may receive scars and lose limbs, and most eventually die from their boat-related injuries.
Taking A Closer Look
Slow Down In Sea Turtle Areas
The FWC estimates that the number of boats in Florida will double along with the human population between 2006 and 2060. As boating activity increases, the risk of boat strikes on sea turtles will rise significantly. Boaters can be part of the solution by following safe boating practices, such as slowing down in designated turtle zones, keeping an eye out for surfacing turtles, and using propeller guards to reduce the chances of fatal strikes. This issue extends beyond Florida, as sea turtles are found in coastal waters around the world. In places like the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Mediterranean, similar measures can be adopted to protect these endangered species. By increasing awareness and taking action globally, boaters can play a crucial role in preserving sea turtle populations and maintaining the health of marine ecosystems everywhere.
