You all know the fable of the hare and the tortoise. Here is the story of the fool and the turtle, which begins like this: “There is no point in being human if it means behaving like a donkey,” says Karim Bennani on Bonjour ! La Matinale TF1.
In Hawaii, a tourist spotted a sea turtle on a beach. “To take a souvenir photo, he lifted it and pulled its fins. Once the photo was taken by his companion, the tourist released the turtle onto the sand and tapped its shell,” explains the journalist.
“The video went viral on social media. Locals were outraged, as were the authorities, who stressed that both the Endangered Species Act and state laws protect all sea turtles. Such an offense can carry a prison sentence of up to one year and a fine of at least $250,” adds the commentator. Hawaiian authorities are still searching for the man.
“It is recommended to keep a distance of at least three meters from these sea turtles, as they have a powerful beak that could cause serious injuries,” concludes Karim Bennani.
The Health of the Endangered Sea Turtle
One of the journalists who shared the video explained on social media why these turtles should not be handled. Firstly, they are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Moreover, touching the animal causes significant stress. Lifting a turtle as this tourist did increases its heart rate and puts it into a state of panic. Its feeding, resting, and overall health can be disrupted by such interactions. Handling a sea turtle can also cause physical harm: dropping it, even from a small height, can crack its shell, damage internal organs, or injure its fins. Human chemicals, such as sunscreen, lotions, and oils, can irritate the turtle’s skin and shell, potentially causing infections.
Taking Action Against This Behavior
Touching a turtle disrupts its natural behavior, preventing it from resting, feeding, or breathing properly, and may cause it to abandon its usual habitats. Such behavior also encourages further inappropriate interactions. The journalist recommends intervening when witnessing such acts. “If no one speaks up, it is assumed to be allowed, and more turtles will be harassed,” he wrote on social media. He adds that visitors often do not understand the regulations or the consequences of their actions, and a reminder can stop this behavior. By intervening, not only is the animal protected, but future generations of turtles benefit, as more people become aware of proper practices.
Source: TF1 Info
