The Fisheries and Conservation Department of the Hong Kong SAR Government released a rescued green sea turtle into the sea

Hong Kong, 29 Oct (China News Service) -- On October 29, the Fisheries and Agriculture Conservation Department (AFCD) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) released a green sea turtle in the waters south of Hong Kong.

It is reported that the green sea turtle was rescued in the Banyan Tree Hollow Fish Farming Area on July 22 this year, and after preliminary inspection by the AFCD, it was sent to Ocean Park in Hong Kong, where it was subjected to detailed assessment by veterinarians and received continuous observation and care.

A spokesman for the Fisheries and Conservation Department said: "The green sea turtle weighs 51 kg and has a dorsal carapace length of about 71 cm, and has been assessed by marine park veterinarians to be in good health and suitable for returning to the sea. ”

The green sea turtle has been implanted with a chip and an alloy logo to facilitate future identification, and its back armor is also equipped with a satellite tracker, which allows the AFCD to collect data and develop appropriate conservation measures by tracking its movements in the ocean and its location in the foraging ground. The AFCD will share the information obtained with conservation agencies to work more effectively to protect green sea turtles.

The green sea turtle is an endangered species worldwide and is the only species of sea turtle bred in Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, all wild turtles (including sea turtles) are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Ordinance (Cap. 170) and no one may hunt, deliberately interfere with, possess, sell or export sea turtles without permission and be liable to a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for one year upon conviction; It is an offence to import, export, re-export or possess sea turtles from the high seas. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty is HK$10 million and imprisonment for 10 years. (End)

Source: China News Network