Nature care

MANKIND’S negative impact on the natural environment is undeniable.

As the debate rages on about climate change, if it exists and if it is truly being affected by man’s actions, sometimes it is important to examine the “little things” which we sometimes tend to overlook.

This writer recently attended a function held on the beach side at a well-known hotel. While most persons were enjoying the performances on stage, a few of us were drawn to what looked like tiny pieces of black paper quickly moving inland. On closer inspection, we realised that the movement on the beach was actually newly hatched turtles. Unfortunately, instead of moving instinctively to the water, they were drawn to the lights and undoubtedly, the loud music coming from the function.

Some persons were marvelling at the sight, but I knew this was not going to end well. I’ve personally witnessed the release of about three buckets of turtles at the Drill Hall beach and heard of the harsh reality which faces this species. Not many of them, through natural selection, will make it to adulthood, therefore it is necessary for as many as possible to make it into the water after they hatch, to give them a fighting chance.

Bearing all of this in mind, I felt it necessary to inform the supervisor on duty of the situation and asked if there was a protocol which deals with the management of the turtles hatching near or on the property. I was met with a blank expression, but then told that the last time there was such an occurrence, the security guard scooped them up in a box and took them back to the sea.

Clearly this is a problem. As an island with growing sensitivity to our environment, and with many facilities boasting of international recognition by environmental agencies, surely this should be deemed important, recognising the fragility of the hawksbill turtle population on the island.

If it has not already been done, I will respectfully suggest that the group or groups which work assiduously to protect the turtle population, keep educating Barbadians on what should be done in the event that something like this happens, so that there is no uncertainty. Their voluntary work is invaluable, however we must ensure that it is more visible. We can’t only hear about the species when they end up being killed and make headlines. We must ensure that the education component is consistent and glaring in the eyes of the public.

Let’s face it, we have encroached on their natural habitat for our own development, the least we could do is offer as much help to ensure that they survive. Not taking responsibility for our actions could have catastrophic consequences, especially for this local endangered species. When you know better, you do better.