Rescued hawksbill turtle returned to sea (with photo)
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The hawksbill turtle was found stranded at Nam Tam Wan, Cheung Chau, in July 2024 by the public and was subsequently rescued by AFCD officers. Following an initial examination, the turtle was sent to Ocean Park Hong Kong (OPHK) where it was assessed by veterinarians and placed under their continuous monitoring and veterinary care.
An AFCD spokesman said, "The hawksbill turtle weighs around 11 kilograms and has a carapace length of about 47 centimetres. After assessment by OPHK's veterinarians, the turtle was found to be in good condition and fit to return to the sea. The department expresses gratitude to OPHK for their dedicated care."
Before the turtle was released into the sea, the AFCD implanted a microchip and attached an Inconel tag for future identification. A satellite transmitter was also mounted on its carapace to track its movements and provide information on its feeding grounds, collecting data to formulate appropriate conservation measures. The AFCD will share the collected information with conservation authorities in other regions to enhance collaborative efforts in protecting sea turtles.
The hawksbill turtle is a globally endangered species and occasionally appears in local waters. In Hong Kong, all wild turtles (including sea turtles) are protected by the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170). No person shall hunt or wilfully disturb, possess, sell or export sea turtles. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year, with the specimens forfeited upon conviction.
In addition, all sea turtle species are listed in Appendix I to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and are regulated in Hong Kong under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586). Any person who imports, introduces from the sea, exports, re-exports or possesses sea turtles not in accordance with the Ordinance has comitted an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years, and the specimens will also be forfeited.
The AFCD urges the public to report any sightings of sea turtles or suspected irregularities involving sea turtles to the department at 1823.
Ends/Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Issued at HKT 12:30
Issued at HKT 12:30
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