A tragic incident unfolded on Friday, November 10, 2025, when a protected green sea turtle was discovered dead within the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve (GSSCMR) in Belize. The discovery was made during a routine patrol conducted by rangers from the Southern Environmental Association (SEA). The turtle, identified as a tagged Chelonia mydas (Green Turtle), exhibited injuries consistent with a boat propeller strike, according to SEA officials. Green turtles are legally protected in Belize, and this incident has reignited concerns about boating practices in marine conservation zones. In a statement, SEA emphasized the importance of responsible boating, urging the public to adhere to no-wake and no-entry zones and to reduce speeds in protected areas. Conservation advocates have long warned that boat strikes pose a significant threat to marine life, particularly in heavily trafficked coastal regions. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in safeguarding vulnerable marine species.