How to Safely and Effectively Save the Loggerhead Sea Turtles from Extinction

With an estimated population of only 44,000 nesting females, the Loggerhead sea turtles are on their way from being "endangered" to becoming extinct. Thousands of sea turtle eggs are laid every year on the East Coast of the United States, and unfortunately, only about 1,000 to 10,000 survive to adulthood. Fortunately, there is still time to make a difference and save the lives of these magnificent creatures—but it is going to take a lot of hard work and dedication not only from our community, but from communities all around the world. Through public awareness, local and national laws, and by creating safe nesting areas, the Loggerhead sea turtles can be saved, and it starts with you!

One of the main factors to the declining population of Loggerhead sea turtles is lack of public awareness. If people knew what was happening to these poor creatures, they would make an extra effort to help. However, the majority of the public does not know the dangers such as commercial fishing, marine debris, and artificial lighting that threaten the lives of the sea turtles everyday. An increase in public awareness, through support campaigns, parades, volunteer opportunities, and active education on the beaches, would make a significant difference. Flyers telling people to pick up their trash, and showing what to do if someone encounters a sea turtle should be posted at every beach. By letting the public know what is going on today, right now, the sea turtles have a bigger chance of survival.

In addition to public awareness, the government should step in by making local and national laws for the safety of not only the Loggerhead, but all species of sea turtles. Effective laws such as clearing the beach before dark during nesting seasons, prohibiting the use of artificial lights (on or near the beach) during nesting, and restricting the use of certain nets and devices used in commercial fishing would greatly help the sea turtles. The government should also support the use of volunteers to clean up the trash on the beaches when it gets dark so that the sea turtles are not harmed by human trash and waste.

As a final point, the Loggerhead sea turtles can make a great comeback in population if we create safe and effective environments for sea turtle nesting. Areas should be marked or fenced off for the sole purpose of nests for sea turtles. There are also safe ways to transport sea turtle eggs to secured, fenced areas on the beach without harming them. This will keep more eggs safe and healthy so that no humans or other animals can get to them. After the eggs have hatched, the new baby sea turtles can return to the ocean and they will have a better chance of survival without other interferences. This will notably add to the increase in Loggerhead sea turtle populations.

The suggestions I have made are only a few of several ways of saving these sea turtles. Any effort can make a big difference. The Loggerhead sea turtle is very important to the culture and reputation of Florida. It would be a horrible shame if generations to come could not witness the wonders and beauty of these unique sea creatures. Their lives depend on you!

Brianna
Heritage Middle School