Environment
Sea Turtles in Danger: Extinction Looms Large
By
Dec 13, 2007, 00:30

(NewsUSA) - Sea turtles have been a majestic presence in the world's oceans since before the dinosaur era -; but their time is running out.

Of the seven species of sea turtles worldwide, all but one call American waters home. But all six species found in U.S. waters are listed as either threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Human factors such as destructive fishing gear, decimation of turtle nesting sites and pollution all contribute to the aquatic reptile's rapidly dwindling numbers.

Although both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service have the authority and obligation to protect sea turtles, environmental threats from humans during the last few decades have continued to prevent restoration of sea turtle populations. From vehicles driving on hidden nesting sites, to disruption and capture by fishing vessels and disturbance from speedboats, many human activities ruin the sea turtles' critical habitat.

But the environmental advocacy group Oceana says that the largest threats occur in the water. Bycatch or accidental capture by commercial fisheries has driven several turtle populations to the brink of extinction. Now, climate change is wreaking additional havoc on sea turtle habitat.

However, hope is not completely lost for the sea turtle. We can take specific prevention steps now to reverse the sea turtle's population decline. Requiring the commercial fishing industry to utilize turtle-friendly fishing techniques, such as taking nets and hooks out of the water when sea turtles are present and using nets that sea turtles can safely pass through, can all make a difference.

With better monitoring of the sea turtle population and strict government enforcement, survival and reproduction rates of the ancient sea turtle can begin to improve.

For more information on sea turtles and ways you can help, please visit www.Oceana.org/seaturtles.

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