Boat Strikes Blamed for Recent Sea Turtle Deaths

This enormous dead leatherback turtle was recently spotted in Buzzards Bay (cause of death unknown). Photo/Tom Richardson

The conservation group Mass Audubon is urging boaters to use caution on the water to avoid collisions with sea turtles. Since mid-June, 23 sea turtles have been found dead on southeastern Massachusetts beaches and in surrounding waters. At least 15 of those deaths were caused by vessel strikes, according to Mass Audubon. Six of the turtles— four endangered leatherback turtles and two threatened loggerhead turtles—were killed by collisions with boats since August.

A variety of sea turtles feed in New England waters every summer, which leads to an increase of deadly strikes.

Boaters can report turtle sightings online at seaturtlesightings.org or by calling 888-SEA-TURT (888-732-8878). The date, location, and species will be recorded in the hopes of raising boater awareness and avoiding accidental strikes.