Protect vulnerable sea turtles along KZN South Coast
Turtle hatchling season is underway - here’s what to do if you find one. A quick, informed response can make the difference between life and death for these vulnerable marine travellers.
With turtle hatchling season now in full swing, from mid-February until mid-May, residents along the South Coast are urged to be on the lookout for stranded baby sea turtles – and to know exactly what to do if they come across one.
During this time, tiny hatchlings can sometimes become disorientated, exhausted or stranded along beaches and coastal areas. While the instinct may be to help by putting them back into the ocean, conservation authorities stress that this should not be done.
Instead, members of the public are advised:
* Do not put the turtle back in the water.
* Contact a rescue organisation immediately.
* If safe to do so, place the hatchling in a small open container lined with a dry towel or cloth.
* Keep it out of direct sunlight and wind while waiting for assistance.
In the case of a larger sea turtle, do not attempt to return it to the sea. Call for help immediately. If the turtle is injured and needs to be moved, assistance should be sought, and it should only be transported in an open container or on a dry towel with padding.
On the South Coast, residents can contact their nearest animal welfare or rehabilitation organisations, including the Lower South Coast SPCA on 039 3120962, CROW (Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife) on 031 4621127, or uShaka Sea World on 031 3288000.
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