The Xunliao Guangdong Province experience: releasing sea turtles for restocking and conservation awareness in China

There is widespread global and historic multi-cultural interest in releasing or returning sea turtles to the sea for restocking efforts, conservation awareness, government-sponsored activities, and even for religious purposes. Sources of these turtles have included hatchlings from artificial hatcheries, captive rearing projects, captive breeding, fishery by-catch, and turtle rehabilitation facilities. Often the turtles are released in considerable numbers with advance publicity attracting many adult and child spectators filled with excitement and interest. The mass release of sea turtles for restocking and conservation awareness in Mainland China occurs periodically but not predictably as to date and location. Very little information in English has been reported outside of China about internal turtle release events. These activities usually include the release of other marine life such as fish, shrimp, and crabs obtained from aquaculture facilities. On June 6, 2012 the authors were honored to participate in the release of 134 turtles and an array of other marine life at Xunliao, Oceania Point Resort, in Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China. The event marked the government's seasonal closure prohibiting the use of certain fishing gear in the South China Sea, including Guangdong Province. Thirty-four of the turtles released were from fishery by-catch turned in to the authorities by fishermen. These turtles ranged up to 99 cm carapace length and included 33 green turtles and one loggerhead all obtained from the coastal waters of Guangdong Province, such as Daya Bay. In addition, 100 others were captive-reared green turtles estimated to be 45cm carapace length. All turtles appeared to be healthy, active, and in excellent body condition. This presentation explores and photographically illustrates some of the unique aspects of China's spectacular sea turtle release phenomenon, as witnessed at Xunliao. Ideas are set forth for the possibility of enhanced conservation study involving both cultural and biological science perspectives. The People's Republic of China has vigorous and growing sea turtle conservation and research programs that deserve praise and partnership to improve the status of regional stocks.