Brevard Zoo Gives Tips On How to Protect Sea Turtles in the Aftermath of Hurricane Dorian
By Brevard Zoo // September 4, 2019
good chance we’ll see an increase in sea turtle strandings after Hurricane Dorian passes
Related Story:Brevard County Health Department Has Issued Countywide Precautionary Swim Advisory for All Public Beaches
BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – In the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, beachcombers will possibly encounter “washbacks” – juveniles who already swam out to sea and have been “washed back” on to the beach.
Though you may think you’re lending a helping hand by putting them back in the water, these little guys will not have the energy to make the miles-long return to the Sargassum line where they spend the next stage of their life cycle.
Sea turtles have lived in our oceans for millions of years, and adults are much better equipped to survive powerful storms. However, debilitated or wounded individuals may also wash up and require our assistance.
Sea turtles of every size are protected at the state and federal levels, and it is illegal to touch them.
If you find a sea turtle in need, contact Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC or Sea Turtle Preservation Society in Brevard County at 321-206-0646 for instructions.
Be prepared to tell the operator the exact location of the animal, the closest access point, the approximate size of the animal and whether it has any artificial markings.
STAY TUNED TO SPACE COAST DAILY FOR HURRICANE DORIAN UPDATES
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