The Oceanarium in Bournemouth is supporting World Turtle Day on May 23, which highlights the importance of protecting the species from extinction.
In the wild, Land, Freshwater and Sea Turtles are all facing imminent threats to their survival from various human activities such as industrial fishing operations and effects of pollution. Despite being listed as endangered, these beautiful creatures are still continually hunted for their shells, meat and eggs.
Although there are various laws in place to protect the Turtles from trade and other threats, it is still vital that individual groups work to make the world’s oceans a safer place for these marine creatures.
The Oceanarium is home to two endangered Green Turtles called Friday and Crusoe, who were re-housed there 11 years ago following their rescue. Conservation is incredibly important to the team and is at the heart of their daily work. In support of World Turtle Day, the Oceanarium is offering four lucky visitors a chance to win the opportunity to assist the team in feeding Friday and Crusoe. Upon the purchase of their admission, visitors will draw a ticket from a prize box to discover whether they are a winner.
Oliver Buttling, Group Curator of the Oceanarium comments: “We are very proud to house these rescued Turtles and to be able to offer them an environment which is as close as possible to their natural habitat. Our Green Turtles, Friday and Crusoe are real characters and thrive in their surroundings.”
To see our video of Friday and Crusoe in action check out our Facebook page or Toutube channel: Oceanarium1
