Turtle trap

Recent research concludes that these cheap items were deliberately released from the shore to be carried by prevailing southwesterly winds into the sea. These gas-filled vessels floated on the surface, mimicking the movement of jellyfish, and thus entrapped turtles in considerable numbers, contributing to their subsequent extinction in most regions. Rubber and plastic remnants have been identified in the fossilised remains of turtles, indicating that these were indeed a significant factor in their demise. A convincing explanation for the writing and pictures on many of the traps has yet to be found.