Xiaoliuqiu is a small island paradise off the southwestern coast of Taiwan. It’s a popular location for water sports. But the island is also a haven for green sea turtles, and experts say visitors and locals are putting them at risk by disrupting their spawning season.
The hot summer is here and people are heading to places like Xiaoliuqiu where there are beaches and water activities to keep themselves cool. But the vacationers are affecting the spawning season of the green sea turtles that are also around the same beaches this time of year.
That’s because some people have been leaving canoes, paddleboards, and reclining chairs on the beaches overnight, blocking the way for mother turtles to lay their eggs. Not only that, experts say that when the baby turtles hatch, they may have a hard time finding their way back to the sea or become prey to other animals.
Authorities are calling for shop owners in the area to return their water activity equipment back to their shops after 5 pm. They say those who do not comply will be fined a maximum of NT$150,000 (US$5,000).