LEWES, Del. — MERR says a sea turtle spotted struggling in Indian River Bay on Saturday, June 21, was found dead the next day. The nonprofit believes the turtle was injured by a boat propeller.
MERR is urging boaters to use propeller guards, which are metal cages that cover the blades, to help protect sea turtles and other wildlife.
More than 50% of sea turtle deaths reported in Delaware are caused by boat propellers, according to MERR. The risk is especially high in summer, when sea turtles often float or sleep at the surface, making them hard to see.
MERR says boat propeller guards don’t significantly affect speed and come in a wide range of prices depending on the size and material.
Key reminders:
Sea turtles are endangered or threatened species.
A propeller guard can prevent serious injury or death.
If you see a stranded or injured sea turtle, dolphin or other marine mammal, call MERR’s 24-hour hotline at 302-228-5029. More information is available at merrinstitute.org.