Everyaction,

Every year countless diamondback terrapins drown in crab traps. Lured in by bait, the beautiful turtles can't escape to breathe. These accidental drownings can cause their populations to plunge — and even eventually disappear.

After a Center petition and comments from caring supporters, Florida wildlife officials proposed a rule requiring "bycatch reduction devices" on crab pots to curb terrapin drownings. These simple gadgets are well studied — already proven to protect terrapins in a meaningful way. But now officials are delaying this critical rule to do yet another study.

Florida's terrapins can't wait any longer. They need protection now.

Speak up for diamondback terrapins: Tell the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to stop moving at a turtle's pace and finalize meaningful protections for these wild jewels of Florida's coasts.