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Man Sparks Outrage After Lifting and Posing with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle in Viral Video

A TikTok video posted Nov. 14 shows a man lifting and posing with a Hawaiian green sea turtle at Kuli‘ou‘ou Beach Park on Oʻahu; the uploader says the turtle was deceased and had three deep slashes on its shell. The species is protected under state and federal law, and harassment can result in up to one year in jail and a minimum $250 fine. Officials and advocates condemned the act and urged people to stay at least 10 feet away from sea turtles and to report violations.

08:15 AM, 11/26/2025Environment
Man Sparks Outrage After Lifting and Posing with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle in Viral Video

A viral TikTok clip showing a man lifting, posing with and then walking away from a Hawaiian green sea turtle at Kuli‘ou‘ou Beach Park on Oʻahu has drawn widespread condemnation. The video was posted on Nov. 14 by user @itsbleuworld and, according to the uploader, the incident occurred on Oct. 31. The poster also said the turtle shown was deceased and had three deep slashes on its shell.

What the video shows

The footage appears to show the individual picking up the turtle, propping it up by its flippers for a photo, setting it back down, tapping its shell and then leaving. The clip has attracted thousands of views and prompted calls for an investigation and increased public awareness about protecting marine wildlife.

Legal and conservation context

Hawaiian green sea turtles are protected under both Hawaii state law and the federal Endangered Species Act and are listed as a threatened species. Harassment or unlawful handling of these animals can carry criminal penalties: a first-offense misdemeanor may result in up to one year in jail and a minimum fine of $250.

"What our law provides is that a person who does that and is found guilty is guilty of a misdemeanor offense," said Jason Redulla, enforcement chief of the state Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement. "That means up to one year in jail and a fine of no less than $250 on the first offense."

Reactions and calls to action

Marine life advocate Melina Clark described the behavior in the video as "disgusting" and deeply upsetting, warning that lack of respect and public education will allow harmful incidents to continue. Community members and officials urged the public to observe these animals from a distance and to follow local protections and cultural norms that emphasize respect for wildlife.

Guidance for beachgoers: Stay at least 10 feet (about 3 meters) away from sea turtles, whether alive or dead; avoid touching, handling or taking intrusive close-up photos; and report suspicious or harmful behavior to local authorities or wildlife enforcement.

State enforcement agencies are aware of the video and may pursue further investigation based on available evidence and reports. The incident highlights the need for continued public education about legal protections and respectful wildlife viewing practices in Hawaii.

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