Sea turtle rescue and disentanglement program in Peru

Mortality of sea turtles in fisheries has caused worldwide concern in the last decades. Certain populations such as the leatherback turtle in the Pacific have been depleted probably due to fisheries bycatch. The goal of this project is to reduce mortality in artisanal fisheries off Peru by promoting the use of mitigation measures and release techniques on board.

IFAW has partnered with ProDelphinus to implement an integrated approach to marine fauna conservation in a geographic area where little information is currently available and few conservation efforts have been initiated.

IFAW’s sea turtle protection and conservation efforts in Peru also focus heavily on environmental education, awareness raising and training among local communities - to include, fishermen and their families, local officials and students.

The ultimate goal of the project is to promote the safe release of sea turtles caught as a result of interactions with Peru’s fishing practices.

Objectives

Reduce sea turtle injuries and mortalities resulting from fishery interactions.

Train observers, fishermen and maritime authorities to prevent injuries and mortalities

Promote the use of sea turtle bycatch mitigation measures.