Boaters: Watch for Sea Turtles, Manatees

BOATERS URGED TO WATCH FOR MANATEES, SEA TURTLES

With sea turtle and manatee sightings on the rise on Georgia’s coast, boaters should be on the lookout for these big and rare animals.

Boat strikes are a leading cause of sea turtle strandings and manatee injuries and deaths. Manatees and all sea turtle species found in Georgia are protected by federal and state laws.

Tips on what to watch for in the coast’s murky waters differ. A “footprint” of swirls may mark a 1-ton manatee underwater. A 300-pound loggerhead sea turtle may show only its head when it surfaces.

The best advice: Be aware, and be prepared to slow down or steer clear.

What You Can Do

• Boaters who hit a manatee or sea turtle are urged to stand-by and immediately contact the DNR at 800-2-SAVE-ME (800-272-8363). This provides biologists the best chance to help the animal and gather valuable scientific data.
• Boaters and others are also encouraged to report any dead manatees and sea turtles they see. (If the turtle is tagged, include the tag color and number in the report if possible.)
• If you see or photograph a healthy or injured manatee, please contact DNR at (800) 2-SAVE-ME (800-272-8363). Please note the date, time, location and number of manatees seen, as well as the coordinates, if possible.

Also

• Read today’s news release.
• Help conserve wildlife.
• See manatee and sea turtle photos.

 

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