Publication Name: PESA Journal No. 25
Authors: Kellie Pendoley
Publication Volume: 25
Date Published: December 1997
Number of Pages: 10
Reference Type: Journal Article
Abstract:
Sea turtles are an important component of the WesternAustralian marine ecosystem. They have existed in the
worlds oceans for over a 100 million years, however the past
two hundred have seen a major decline in population levels
globally, primarily as a result of human consumption of
meat and eggs and a demand for turtle shell decorative
items. They are protected under international, national and
state regulations and should be considered in any
environmental impact assessment of geophysical programs
in West Australian waters. The known nesting sites in
Western Australia for Green, Flatback, Loggerhead and
Hawksbill Turtles are identified in the paper, however this
should only be considered preliminary as it is likely that
other major rookeries exist but are yet to be confirmed.
Biological characteristics of turtle breeding and migratory
cycles are discussed briefly as a background to the
environmental impact assessment and recommended
environmental management guidelines for collecting
seismic data in the vicinity of sea turtle rookeries and
feeding grounds. All seismic programs should be assessed
and managed on a case-by-case basis making allowances for
surveys to be tailored to fit specific environmental,
meteorological, operational and regulatory conditions