David Sommers caught, but there are many more terrapin harvesters still illegally collecting diamondbacks in New Jersey marshes
“There are hundreds of places it could occur,” Snellbaker said. “It’s a matter of being in the right place at the right time.”
Fines for skirting the ban can be up to $25,000 per day for each violation, but it is determined on a case-by-case basis. The state can look at any economic benefits the poacher gained while assessing penalties, according to the statute.
The public can help though, Snellbaker said. It was a concerned citizen who reported the two Hatboro men who were grabbing terrapins in Upper Township.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Vietnam/China: new species of Chinese softshell turtle discovered (Pelodiscus variegatus), immediately classified as critically endangered
India: 2 days of record setting collection of olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) eggs in Madurai
USA: volunteers sought on Padre Island to help report nesting olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea)
Crime & Punishment
USA: radiated tortoise stolen from Gladys Porter Zoo. TX, thief caught and tortoise returned
Ecology
USA: Clark County, NV seeks to turn protected desert tortoise habitat into off-road recreational vehicle areas
Education
Newfoundland: Malcom the Mindful Turtle helping teach kids about dealing with stress and anxiety
China: meet Kimi the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and learn more about China’s efforts to protect sea turtles
Miscellany
USA: web cam set up for Kirby the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, FL
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Photo from Division of Fish and Wildlife.
