NOAA Scientists Report Misconceptions Regarding Environmental Change On Sea Turtles
As the winter looms over the horizon, already the weather has wreaked havoc on the sea turtle populations along the US coastline; specifically, the number of strandings has increased dramatically as conservationists work non-stop to rescue the sea turtles that become stranded on the beaches as a result of unexpected cold snaps. Contrary to the long-accepted theory that climate change was the ultimate cause, NOAA scientists are on a new track towards collecting data on this perplexing issue. In actuality, the Sea Turtle Program Manager at NOAA, NMFS, and Galveston Laboratory, Ben Higgins, says that this is possibly due to a rise in the sea turtle population. Based on migration patterns, sea turtles travel to the northerly areas as part of their natural habits, and when the winter weather hits, they are helpless to the elements. Higgins does not believe that there is currently sufficient evidence to claim climate change as the culprit; however, 500 turtles have been stranded this season and the Gulf World Marine Institute has been caring for a massive case-load since the colder temperatures hit the coastline. Receiving turtles from other states and rehabilitation facilities, the institute is working tirelessly to ensure that each and every patient makes a full recovery.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Asia: Check out footage of softshell release
GR: Team works non-stop to prevent strandings
CL: Celebrating another victory for rehabbers
Crime & Punishment
USA: Caught in the act of poaching
Asia: Massive confiscation breaks headlines
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Photo from Chelsie Taddonio.
