Three Hawksbill Turtles Found Entangled in Fishing Nets on Keelung Beach, Two Survive and One Dies

(CNA reporter Wang Chao-yu, Keelung, 13th) Keelung City Government conducted a cleanup operation at Dawulun Beach yesterday, where three hawksbill turtles were discovered entangled in discarded fishing nets. Two of the turtles were still alive, while one was found dead. The city government stated today that abandoned fishing gear can become undetectable 'ghost gear,' posing a serious threat to marine ecosystems, and called for collective efforts to protect marine life.

Following Typhoon Bavi's passage, Keelung City launched an environmental cleanup at Dawulun Beach yesterday. Local residents and lifeguards successively discovered three hawksbill turtles entangled in abandoned fishing nets. Initial observations indicated that all three were juvenile turtles aged between three and five years. Two showed vital signs and were in stable condition, while one was already dead upon discovery.

The Department of Industrial Development explained that strong winds and waves from the typhoon had washed large amounts of marine debris and discarded fishing nets ashore. The three turtles likely drifted with floating debris and were carried to Dawulun Beach, where they became immobilized due to tight entanglement in fishing nets. Fortunately, prompt discovery by the public and lifeguards allowed for immediate intervention and notification of the Ocean Conservation Administration's Marine Animal Rescue Network (MARN).

Upon notification, personnel from the Chinese Cetacean Society arrived on site and transported the two surviving turtles to the Shulin Sea Turtle Rescue Center for detailed examination, treatment, and ongoing care. The deceased turtle, not yet decomposed, was also sent to the center for autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Keelung City's Department of Industrial Development Director Tsai Fu-ning emphasized that hawksbill turtles are rare and protected marine wildlife. This incident underscores the severe threat that abandoned fishing nets and marine debris pose to marine ecosystems. Discarded fishing gear continues to drift in the ocean, potentially entangling turtles, cetaceans, seabirds, and other marine animals, creating an invisible hazard known as 'ghost gear.' (Edited by Lin Shu-hui) 1150713

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