To safely pick up a sea turtle, always support it by grasping the front and back of its top shell, known as the carapace. This method ensures the turtle's safety and minimizes risk to the handler.
Essential Guidelines for Safe Sea Turtle Handling
Handling a sea turtle should only be attempted when absolutely necessary, such as during a rescue or when directed by wildlife authorities. It requires careful consideration for both your safety and the well-being of the turtle.
Where to Grasp (The Carapace)
The carapace is the hard, protective upper shell of the sea turtle. When lifting, aim to support the turtle's weight evenly by placing one hand at the front edge of the carapace and the other at the back edge. This provides a stable and secure grip without putting pressure on its delicate internal organs or limbs.
- Front Grasp: Position your hand securely under the front edge of the carapace, near the head but without touching the head or neck.
- Rear Grasp: Place your other hand under the back edge of the carapace, ensuring a firm hold.
- Lift Evenly: With both hands, lift the turtle smoothly and evenly, keeping its body as level as possible.
What to Avoid (and Why)
It is crucial to understand what parts of a sea turtle to avoid when attempting to pick one up, as improper handling can lead to injury for both the turtle and the handler.
- Flippers: Do not pick up a sea turtle by its flippers.
- Risk to Handler: Adult male sea turtles, of all species except leatherbacks, possess sharp claws on their fore flippers. These flippers can slash forcefully, causing significant injury.
- Risk to Turtle: Grasping by the flippers can easily dislocate joints, cause fractures, or inflict other severe injuries to the turtle's limbs.
- Head: Never pick up a sea turtle by its head.
- Risk to Turtle: The neck is a highly vulnerable area, and any pressure can cause severe spinal or internal damage.
- Risk to Handler: A stressed turtle may attempt to bite, which can be painful and dangerous depending on the species.
- Tail: Do not pick up a sea turtle by its tail.
- Risk to Turtle: The tail is a small, delicate appendage that is not designed to support the turtle's weight and can be easily damaged or detached.
When is Handling Necessary?
Sea turtles are wild animals, and direct human interaction should be minimal. Handling should only occur in specific, critical situations:
- Stranded or Injured Turtles: When a turtle is found stranded, entangled, or visibly injured on a beach.
- Obstruction: If a turtle is in immediate danger, such as on a roadway or stuck in an unnatural environment.
- Scientific Research or Rehabilitation: Under the direct supervision of trained marine biologists or wildlife rehabilitation specialists.
In most cases, the first and most important step is to contact your local wildlife authorities or a sea turtle rescue organization. They have the expertise and equipment to handle these animals safely.
Important Safety Considerations
| Action | Do | Don't |
|---|---|---|
| Grasp Point | Front and back of the carapace (top shell) | Flippers, head, or tail |
| Support | Ensure even weight distribution, keep turtle level | Allow body to sag or put pressure on limbs/head |
| Awareness | Be mindful of fore flippers and potential slashing | Underestimate the strength or defensive reactions of the turtle |
| Duration | Minimize handling time to reduce stress | Prolong contact unnecessarily |
| Environment | Keep the turtle wet, if possible, especially if out of water | Place on hot, dry surfaces or leave exposed to direct sun for long periods |
Seeking Professional Assistance
If you encounter a sea turtle that appears to be in distress, stranded, or injured, it is always best to contact trained professionals. Organizations dedicated to marine wildlife rescue and conservation are equipped to respond safely and effectively.
- In the United States: Contact the NOAA Fisheries stranding network by calling 1-866-755-NOAA (6622) or your local marine mammal and sea turtle stranding network directly.
- Internationally: Look for local wildlife authorities, marine conservation groups, or sea turtle rescue centers in your region.
These experts can provide guidance, assess the situation, and intervene appropriately, ensuring the best possible outcome for the sea turtle.
