Impact of Oil Spill on Sea Turtles

The Gulf of Mexico is a crucial breeding ground for endangered sea turtles. Following the BP oil spill, many dead turtles were found, prompting a federal investigation. Despite no visible oil contamination, drowning and exposure to toxins are suspected causes. Shrimping activities, especially without proper turtle excluder devices, pose significant risks. Regulations are inconsistently enforced, with Louisiana not enforcing TED rules. Necropsies reveal drowning signs, possibly due to fishing nets. Environmental changes from the oil spill may drive turtles closer to shore, increasing risks. Understanding these impacts is vital for wildlife conservation.

What prompted the investigation into the deaths of sea turtles in the Gulf of Mexico?

• A natural disaster affecting the Gulf

• A new law protecting sea turtles

• The BP oil spill and subsequent turtle deaths

• A sudden increase in turtle population

What was puzzling about the condition of the turtles found after the oil spill?

• They showed no visible signs of oil contamination

• They were all found in one location

• They were found in perfect health

• They were all of the same species

Why are shrimp boats considered a threat to sea turtles?

• They operate only at night

• They pollute the water with chemicals

• They use large nets that can trap turtles

• They scare away the turtles' prey

What device is required on shrimp boats to help prevent turtle drownings?

• A turtle alarm system

• A turtle-friendly net

• A turtle excluder device

• A turtle locator

Why has Louisiana not reported any violations related to turtle excluder devices?

• They refuse to enforce the regulations

• They have no turtles in their waters

• They enforce the regulations strictly

• They have fewer shrimp boats

What evidence suggests that turtles might be drowning in fishing nets?

• Sediment found in their lungs

• Injuries from boat propellers

• Oil found on their shells

• Lack of food in their stomachs

What unusual finding was discovered in the turtles' necropsies?

• High levels of mercury

• Pieces of shrimp in their esophagus

• Evidence of a viral infection

• Signs of old age

What condition was found in some turtles that could be linked to oil exposure?

• Dehydration

• Pneumonia

• Broken shells

• Parasite infestation

What is the ultimate goal of the investigation into the turtle deaths?

• To determine the oil spill's impact and assess penalties for BP

• To relocate the turtles to a safer area

• To ban all fishing activities in the Gulf

• To increase the turtle population

Why is it important to study the effects of the oil spill on wildlife?

• To improve fishing techniques

• To understand the long-term impact on ecosystems

• To develop new oil extraction methods

• To create new wildlife reserves