The public is being invited to attend a free talk on Sea Turtles in British Waters by the Marine Conservation Society.
The presentation, which will take place at the Erin Arts centre on 6th August, is being given by Peter Richardson, the society's Species Policy Officer.
It will offer a fascinating insight into the species of turtle found in British waters, the threats to their survival and the conservation projects being undertaken to counter the impact of those threats.
The Leatherback Turtle (pictured), the largest of the marine turtles, is a seasonal visitor to British Waters.
Its staple diet is jellyfish and, as these are found in abundance in Manx waters through the summer months, it is believed that the sighting of a 'Leatherback' off the Island's coast is strongly possible.
Categorised as 'critically endangered' by the World Conservation Union, the Leatherback Turtle is vulnerable to entanglement in fishing lines and nets, and also to marine litter (such as plastic bags and balloon skins), which it may swallow.
Mr Richardson will address the importance of protecting species such as the Leatherback, the work being done by the Society to help raise awareness, and how members of the public can play their part.
The presentation will start at 8pm on Thursday 6th August at the Erin Arts Centre in Port Erin.
In the meantime, contact the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries And Forestry's Wildlife and Conservation Department on (01624) 843109 for more information.
To read more about marine turtles in British seas, click here.
Go Jellyfish Spotting - and Support Valuable Research
Beach-goers in the Isle of Man are being reminded that they can now take part in a survey to help map the numbers, distribution and species of jellyfish in British waters.
The Marine Conservation Society is collecting data on jellyfish from all over the British Isles, and is keen to hear from anybody who
would like to get involved.
The year-round survey has been running since 2003. The society's species policy officer Peter Richardson emphasises that it's easy to get take part, and encourages everyone to help make a contribution to research. For more information, click here.
