27 June 2014

Balloons kill sea turtles

Two balloons were discovered in the digestive tract of this sea turtle along with the balloon string.
Photo by USFWS Northeast Region facebook page
The balloon string extended from the esophagus approximately 150 cm through the GI to the junction of the colon.

The photos were posted on the USFWS Northeast Region facebook page with these comments: "Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center conducted a necropsy on the critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle found at Eastern Shore of VA and Fisherman Island NWR last week."
Photo by USFWS Northeast Region facebook page
"Two balloons were discovered in the digestive tract of the turtle along with the balloon string. The balloon string extended from the esophagus approximately 150 cm through the GI to the junction of the colon."
Photo by USFWS Northeast Region facebook page
And this additional advice: "Accidents do happen; kids and adults alike can loose a balloon to the wind. But please, if you have one outside, hold on tight. And spread the word - this is a very sad story and the photos are not pleasant, but need to understand the negative effect debris can have on wildlife."

Mass balloon releases kill!

Even one balloon release can kill.

Instead of a balloon release, consider these environmentally-friendly alternatives to balloon release from Balloons Blow - Don't Let Them Go

From the USFWS Northeast Region facebook page. The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.The northeast region of the U.S. includes Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

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