Tag:
Fisheries Resources Act
Conservation
Turtle Nesting Season Under Threat from Human Activity
The 2022 Turtle Nesting Season is underway, with nests already registered on the beaches of North Ambergris Caye. While the island has long been a hot spot for turtle nesting, the increase in human activity has threatened the health of a successful nesting season in recent years. According to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the local authorities in charge of monitoring and recording the nesting season on Ambergris Caye, the main areas are from Punta Azul to Robles Beach and the Rocky Point area.
Community and Society
Environmental authorities condemn handling turtle hatchlings; it is illegal and harmful for baby turtles
Videos and images on social media of people handling baby sea turtles have prompted the Belize Fisheries Department and the Hol Chan Marine Reserve to launch an investigation into this practice, which is illegal under the Fisheries Resources Act No. 7 of 2020. Observation of wildlife is encouraged, but without human interaction, as these creatures must follow their natural life cycle.
Conservation
Reminder – Protection of Sea Turtles
The Department hereby reminds the PUBLIC that in accordance with Regulation 10 of Statutory Instrument No. 66 of 2002, under the Fisheries Resources Act No. 7 of 2020:
• No person shall fish for in the waters of Belize or buy, sell, or have in possession any turtle of the following species:
a) Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Turtle)
b) Caretta caretta (Loggerhead Turtle)
c) Chelonia mydas (Green Turtle)
d) Dermochelys coriacea (Leatherback Turtles)
