Staff report
Nassau County officials are reminding boaters to exercise caution in local waters following boat strikes involving loggerhead sea turtles.
The Inwater Research Group recently shared a photo after encountering loggerhead sea turtles that had been struck by boats, according to the county’s weekly “Turtle Talk Tuesday” education series.
According to the Sea Turtle Conservancy, sea turtles have poor hearing and vision when out of water, making them vulnerable to vessel strikes when surfacing to breathe, bask or feed in shallow areas. Many sea turtles are injured or killed by blunt-force trauma from boat impacts or propellers.
County officials recommend several safety practices for boaters:
- Slow down in designated turtle zones and watch for surfacing turtles, particularly in seagrass beds and coral reefs where sea turtles feed
- Use propeller guards to reduce chances of fatal strikes
- Stay alert for changes in water surface that could indicate nearby marine life
- Exercise extra caution during summer months when sea turtles are most active during nesting season
Boaters who accidentally strike a sea turtle or manatee should call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-3922. Boaters are not charged if the collision was accidental and they were operating responsibly.
“By working together and practicing safe boating habits, we can greatly reduce the number of preventable injuries to these incredible creatures,” county officials stated. “Every small action—whether it’s slowing down, staying alert, or reporting an accident—helps protect sea turtles and ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy their presence in our waters.”
