St Kitts – Nevis commemorates Sea Turtle Week
The Department of Marine Resources in St. Kitts and Nevis is celebrating Sea Turtle Week in honor of World Sea Turtle Day, which is observed on June 16. Sea Turtle Week began on June 12 and will culminate with the celebration of World Sea Turtle Day.
On Tuesday, June 13, 2023, the department marked Hawksbill Day, highlighting the importance of Hawksbill sea turtles. These turtles play a crucial role in coral reef ecosystems by eating sponges, which can otherwise outgrow and harm coral reefs.
The department also raised awareness about the illegal trade of Hawksbill turtle shells, which are used to create tortoiseshell products like bowls, furniture inlays, hair accessories, combs, glasses, and jewelry. Due to this trade, Hawksbill turtles are now critically endangered and on the brink of extinction.
In preparation for World Sea Turtle Day on June 16, the department encouraged the public to learn more about sea turtles and explore ways to help protect these important creatures.
Earlier, on June 12, the department celebrated Loggerhead Day. Loggerhead sea turtles are known for their powerful jaws, which they use to crush hard-shelled invertebrates like crabs and conchs.
The department shared an interesting fact, noting that more than 50 species of plants and invertebrates have been found living on the backs of loggerhead turtles—a truly “SEA-mazing” discovery! However, the department also pointed out that one of the greatest threats to loggerhead turtles is entanglement in fishing gear. When turtles get caught in discarded fishing nets, commercial gillnets, or longlines, they can suffer severe injuries, such as losing a flipper, or even drown.
World Sea Turtle Day, observed annually on June 16, is dedicated to raising awareness about the protection of sea turtles. Marine authorities and conservation groups use this day to educate the public about the importance of these creatures and the steps we can take to ensure their survival.