How to save a stranded turtle

The turtle should be gently lifted, supported from underneath and placed in a dry, well-ventilated box, ideally on a dry paper towel or facecloth.

GEORGE NEWS - When tiny sea turtles wash ashore along the Garden Route, their survival often depends on the first person who spots them.

Knowing what to do in those critical moments can mean the difference between life and death, and this February, locals will have the chance to learn exactly how to help.

The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation will once again bring its annual Turtle Rescue Network roadshow to the Garden Route, sharing vital information on how to safely rescue and transport stranded marine turtle hatchlings found along the shoreline.

The Turtle Rescue Network has played a key role in numerous successful rescues over the years, thanks to strong co-operation between members of the public, conservation organisations and ocean-focused marine NGOs.

Between February and August each year, turtle hatchlings regularly wash up along the coastline between Gqeberha and False Bay. These are usually loggerhead and leatherback turtles that have travelled south in the Agulhas Current after hatching in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

"The correct response when finding a stranded hatchling is simple but crucial," says the Strandloper Project's* founder, Mark Dixon.

"The turtle should be gently lifted, supported from underneath and placed in a dry, well-ventilated box, ideally on a dry paper towel or facecloth. Rescuers should contact the Turtle Rescue Network or a local rescue organisation to arrange collection and transport to either the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town or Bayworld in Gqeberha."

Hatchlings are most often found after strong winds and storms.

Following sustained easterly winds, an upwelling can occur, causing a sudden drop in sea temperatures that stuns the turtles.

Another growing threat is microplastic ingestion. "In rehabilitation facilities, more than 70% of rescued turtles pass microplastics in their faeces.

"Plastic in the digestive system creates a false feeling of fullness, preventing the turtles from feeding and leading to fatigue and weakness," says Dixon.

Workshop details

This year's roadshow will be hosted by the Strandloper Project at the Red Barn at the Scarab Arts & Crafts Village in Sedgefield between 09:00 and 15:00 on Tuesday 17 February. The event will feature a full-day programme of talks and video presentations. Interactive exhibits hosted by local marine NGOs will also form part of the day, making it ideal for school groups and residents.

Who to contact for turtle rescues

• Turtle Rescue Network hotline: 083 300 1663• Strandloper Project: 082 213 5931• Sedgefield Stranding Network: 083 271 7324• SANParks: 082 269 5007• CapeNature: 044 383 0043

*The Strandloper Project is a Garden Route-based volunteer-driven marine conservation and citizen science organisation.