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Sea turtles have been caught up in this overfishing disaster for far too long. Over the last 100 years, their populations have declined by 90% and continues to do so7. This is extremely concerning since it takes a very long time for sea turtles to replenish their populations. Something must be done to save these unique, fascinating creatures before its too late.
SAVE THE SEA TURTLES
Threats
A sea turtle’s natural threats are typically raccoons, crabs, and ants-species that like to eat the eggs that sea turtles lay7. Once the sea turtle lays her eggs on the beach, she goes back into the ocean to let her babies survive on their own. Many of these babies die from birds and crabs that eat them before they can find safety7. When they become adult sea turtles they are mostly immune to predation except for some occasional shark attacks. However, humans are their biggest threat. Causes range from consumption, overfishing, and the illegal shell trade to marine debris and pollution7. Similar to the declining shark populations, the sea turtle populations are declining due to human activities.
Uses
Sea turtles are a source of food in various countries; especially in Asia. Fishermen typically go after their shell, but their meat is also hunted on occasion7. More specifically, there is a hawksbill sea turtle that is hunted to create jewelry. Most of these purchases are done illegally due to the high demand that has been created in the black market7.
There are some laws preventing these actions, but there is little to no enforcement.
Solution
More awareness and education towards this issue must be implemented; especially towards suppliers and tourists. More laws need to be accompanied with better enforcement or else people will continue to hunt for these beautiful creatures.