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Frequently Asked Questions: Safe observation of sea turtles

What are the rules regarding viewing and interacting with sea turtles in Canada?

Answer:

The Species at Risk Act prohibits the harm or harassment of sea turtles listed as endangered or threatened, such as the Atlantic populations of Leatherback Sea Turtles and Loggerhead Sea Turtles. For more information, please visit the Species at Risk Act.

To avoid contravening the Species at Risk Act, it is recommended that you do not approach these sea turtle species closer than 50 metres (164 feet or 0.027 nautical miles). Doing so may harass and/or harm the animal.

This guideline applies to all vessel types, including

  • kayaks
  • tour boats
  • paddleboards
  • pleasure craft
  • personal watercraft

Do not attempt to touch, feed, or swim with a sea turtle. A 50-metre minimum approach distance is a recommendation based on expert opinion. Other jurisdictions, such as the United States, recommend similar approach distances for sea turtles. If you encounter any other sea turtle species, limit your approach distance to 50 metres as a best practice.

Why shouldn’t I approach a sea turtle?

Answer:

Approaching sea turtles can cause them injury or harm. For example, they may sustain injuries from propellers or collisions with vessels. Such injuries can sometimes be fatal. Be cautious when approaching areas of known or suspected marine wildlife activity.

What do I do if a sea turtle approaches my motorized vessel?

Answer:

For your safety and the safety of the sea turtle, please put the engine in neutral and allow the sea turtle to pass. Wait until you are more than 50 metres away before slowly resuming speed.

How can mariners report sightings or incidents?

Answer:

To report a sea turtle sighting, contact:

Canadian Sea Turtle Network
1-888-729-4667 (toll-free)
info@seaturtle.ca

To report a sea turtle incident, such as a dead, entangled, or injured animal, call one of the following hotlines as soon as possible:

In Maritimes Region
1-888-729-4667 (Canadian Sea Turtle Network)
In Gulf Region
1-800-565-1633 (Canadian Coast Guard)
In Newfoundland and Labrador Region
1-888-895-3003 (Whale Release and Strandings)
In Québec Region
1-877-722-5346 (Réseau québécois d'urgences pour les mammifères marins)
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