Virgin Islanders are urged to refrain from hunting or rearing sea turtles during the annual closed season, which began this April. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Director of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr Theodore E. James emphasised the importance of compliance with the measures for the closed season for sea turtles. Photo: GIS/File

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries announced on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, that the closed season for sea turtles is now officially in effect. This season will run from April 1 to 2 and again from April 7 to November 30, 2026.

This initiative aims to protect the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), while a full moratorium remains in effect for the Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) and Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta).

Several activities strictly prohibited during the closed season

According to a press release from the department, several activities are strictly prohibited during the closed season. These include fishing for or capturing any turtle, removing any turtle from fishery waters, possessing any turtle or parts of a turtle at any time, and exposing for sale, selling, or purchasing any turtle.

“These restrictions apply to all persons, vessels, vehicles, and premises”, the release further stated.

Director of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr Theodore E. James, emphasised the importance of compliance.

“These measures are critical to protecting our vulnerable turtle populations and ensuring their recovery for future generations. We urge everyone to respect the closed season and play their part in conserving our marine resources.”