Turtles are animals, too!

Marianas Variety, Friday, June 8, 2007

PAWS, turtle advocates join hands
By Emmanuel T. Erediano
Variety News Staff

A REINFORCED animal welfare campaign is being considered by the group advocating the conservation of turtles and the Pet Assistance and Welfare Services, according to animal care advocate Katie Busenkell.

Members of PAWS and the Marianas Turtle Conservation Program—Meeting the Micronesia Challenge met at the Café at the Park at 6 p.m., yesterday to discuss the establishment of a spay and neuter clinic, anti-cruelty legislation, dead animal pickup and the animal shelter on island.

They also discussed the creation of a turtle conservation program, and different projects for the conservation of green sea and hawksbill turtles.

PAWS has expressed concern about the increasing number of stray dogs and cats which has resulted in an increase in the number of dead animals on public roads.

Turtle advocates, for their part, are alarmed by the increasing number of threats to the island’s dwindling turtle species.

An eco/tourism and habitat preservation and restoration campaign is being created to educate the business community about the importance of protecting and enhancing the environment at and around reefs, and identifying nesting grounds for sea turtles along the beaches.

This initiative will include the installation of turtle-friendly lighting at hotel’s beach fronts, and the adoption of the “Walk It, Don’t Drive It” campaign.