People
seem to have a special fondness for turtles, and many say, when asked,
that turtles are one of their favorite animals. It's not surprising because
turtles have many natural charms and they have weathered incredible odds
to survive, especially in today's world. We all need to do our part to
protect these wonderful animals. Following are suggestions on how you
can help sea turtles around the world.
The following information provided by Humane Society of the United States.
DRINK HONU BEER!
A generous portion of all Honu beer sales are given to the World Turtle
Trust in Honolulu, a non-profit organization that funds sea turtle conservation
efforts worldwide.
World Turtle Trust
http://world-turtle-trust.org/
The
following information provided by Humane Society of the United States.
DON'T POLLUTE
Chemical pollution makes its way into water bodies and wild areas, poisoning
turtles and destroying their habitats. Always properly dispose of any
hazardous materials such as paint, oil, etc. Garbage such as plastic bags
kill many sea turtles that mistake them for food or become entangled in
them. Helium balloons such as those released at events also pose a serious
threat to sea turtles and many other animals. Reduce the amount of garbage
you produce and dispose of it properly.
PROTECT
WILD AREAS
The loss of suitable habitat is a serious concern in turtle conservation.
Coastal developments such as hotels, resorts, and condominiums greatly
reduce suitable nesting sites, foraging grounds and habitats for sea turtles.
Coastal developments also creates excessive artificial lighting on the
beach. You can help by becoming active in your area's conservation commission
or parks and recreation department and by promoting the protection of
natural habitats.
DO NOT DISTURB
Do not walk or drive on the beach at night during summer months. This
will frighten nesting sea turtles back into the sea, preventing the laying
of eggs and jeopardizing existing sea turtle nests.
TURN
OUT THE LIGHTS
Do not shine bright lights on the beach at night. Lighting discourages
females from approaching the beach to lay eggs. In addition, hatchlings
are led away from the ocean by artificial lighting, causing them to become
disoriented and die of predation or dehydration on the shore.
REPORT SEA TURTLE/SEA TURTLE NEST
HARASSMENT
Report to local authorities any person harassing or poaching a sea turtle,
eggs, hatchlings or sea turtle nest. This is a serious violation of U.S.
state and federal laws.
ADOPT
A SEA TURTLE
Several conservation groups offer programs that conduct research, conservation
and advocacy work to protect sea turtles. Support sea turtle conservation
groups and stay informed on issues affecting sea turtles. By doing so,
you can be another voice for their protection.