Keep Your Distance

So far this year, the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society has responded to the strandings of four kinds of sea turtles: the Atlantic green turtle, which is an endangered species; the loggerhead, considered vulnerable; the leatherback, also vulnerable; and the Kemp’s ridley, which is critically endangered. Of 15 stranded or dead sea turtles found between Southold and New York City since mid-June, 11 were struck and killed by boats. The society is asking boaters to keep an eye out for sea turtles, and to keep their distance — at least 150 feet away. Reducing speed and reporting boat strikes right away are other measures that could help save a sea turtle’s life. The same pertains to other animals such as whales, porpoises and seals, which are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Obviously, it’s a bad idea to feed, chase or entrap marine creatures. They’re all better off being stressed out by as little human interaction as possible. Meanwhile, sick, injured or dead marine mammals and sea turtles can be reported to the New York State stranding hotline at 631-369-9829. Sightings of live sea turtles can be reported to sightings@amseas.org.