Gallery 4.5: Sea Turtle Handling and Release

When handling, lift the turtle by grabbing the sides of its shell. Release the turtle gently into the water head first. (Photo: Poisson et al 2012)

Do not lift the turtle by its flippers or use sharp objects (e.g., gaffs) to retrieve them. Do not leave turtles in the sun or lying on their backs. (Photo: Poisson et al 2012)

Recovery of an unconscious turtle: place the turtle on a tilted surface with its hindquarters approximately 15 cm higher than its head, and check the turtle’s reflexes by touching its tail or eyelid every three hours.