One of the first things we did last week when Ceekay was here was to visit the Loggerhead Marine Life Center in Juno Beach. They rehabilitate injured sea turles for return to their natural habitats while educating the public about the endangered species. It was fascinating!
We started out our visit learning about the different sea turtles.
Then there was the photo op.
Then it was on to the tanks of injured turtles. This big guy almost died when he was injured by a boat propeller. They didn't think he would survive, but after several surgeries he is now scheduled for release later this summer - a success story!
We learned that their shells do not grow back. Instead, heavy scar tissue forms over the injured site.
The turtles lay their eggs on the beaches across the street from our RV resort. It is against the law to disturb their nests. They only hatch at night and the baby turtles head for the water guided by the reflection of the moon on the water.
If they make it to the water, the babies then swim to a reef 15 miles away where they have some hiding places to feed and grow for a while.
Out of the 1000 eggs a female lays, only 1 baby turtle will survive to adulthood. They definitely need our help!
Next time: Our Road Trip to Key West!
Ceekay told me a little about them. How interesting!
ReplyDeleteGlad you both had a fun week. Can't wait to see more pics.
Rest up and get back to normal!
Hugs!
1 out of 100? That's not a very good percentage! (See how well I do at math?)
ReplyDeleteLooks like a very interesting place. The boys loved the turtle pics, BTW...