Modifications of traps to reduce bycatch of freshwater turtles

Journal of Wildlife Management
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Abstract

Mortality of freshwater turtles varies among types and deployments of traps. There are few or no losses in hoop or fyke traps set where turtles may reach air, including placement in shallows, addition of floats on traps, and tying traps securely to a stake or to shore. Turtle mortality occurs when traps are set deep, traps are checked at intervals >1 day, and when turtles are captured as bycatch. Devices are available that exclude turtles from traps set for crab or game fish harvest. Slotted gates in front of the trap mouth reduce turtle entry, but small individuals still may be trapped. Incidental take of turtles is preventable by integrating several designs into aquatic traps, such as adding floats to the top of traps so turtles may reach air or an extension tube (chimney, ramp) that creates an escape route.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Modifications of traps to reduce bycatch of freshwater turtles
Series title Journal of Wildlife Management
DOI 10.1002/jwmg.31
Volume 75
Issue 1
Year Published 2011
Language English
Publisher The Wildlife Society
Publisher location Bethesda, MD
Contributing office(s) Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Description 3 p.
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Journal of Wildlife Management
First page 3
Last page 5
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