Ontario Bans Snapping Turtle Harvest
TORONTO, March 31, 2017 /CNW/ - As of April 1 2017, harvesting of snapping turtles will no longer be allowed in Ontario.
In an announcement made today, the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry, the Honourable Kathryn McGarry has granted protection for the snapping turtle in Ontario by eliminating its harvest.
"We wish to thank Minister McGarry for extending very real protection for an animal whose population is of 'special concern' under the Species at Risk Act," said Barry MacKay, Canadian Representative, Born Free. "This is a critically important decision. Female snapping turtles reach reproductive maturity between 15 and 20 years, so the loss of each individual has significant implications for the health of the population."
"The decision was announced today by e-mail to Animal Alliance and cited on the Environment Registry," said Liz White, Director, Animal Alliance of Canada. "We would like to thank the Minister for this progressive and proactive decision to protect an 'at risk' species from human exploitation. Not only are there population considerations but also very real humane concerns that will be addressed.
"We welcome more progressive actions from the Minister."
SOURCE Animal Alliance of Canada
Barry MacKay: 905-472-9731, [email protected]; Liz White: 416-809-4371, [email protected]
Share this article