VIP Training

We had a great group of new turtle volunteers from the EPA and NPS last night.



Lynn was great at listening for hatchlings, scratching and crawling our of their sandy nests.



Kelly, Blake and George joined her as they all learned how to set screens. The screens are designed to keep the hatchlings just above the nest, safe from ghost crabs and birds, while VIPs and park staff are off checking other nests. As soon as hatchlings are observed, they're allowed to crawl to the Gulf of Mexico, with humans helping keep their predators at bay.



Everyone stayed for hours, waiting for at least one of the three nests to yield some hatchlings. Finally, around 0100, 88 loggerheads emerged from SR6103, Santa Rosa nest June 10th, number 3. We're so fortunate to have co-workers and new friends help us shepherd our tiny turtles to the sea in this very busy season!