The Seven Dwarfs and Gracie

The green (Chelonia mydas) nest is finally hatching, but it's been a little odd as hatchlings emerge in small waves.



The greens are easily distinguished from our loggerheads and Kemp's by their smooth-nosed profiles...



and brilliant white bellies.



This group seems to have emerged a little early, perhaps pushed out by more rambunctious siblings.



Three still have distinct belly folds...



and one is just a little bit pale.



One little guy, Doc, does seem ready to go,



though he can't find his way out! How's that for a traffic jam?

I took six of the dwarfs to turtle rehab at the Gulfarium, where they will receive care for the next 24 hours, and will be encouraged to swim tomorrow.



For now, Dopey, Sleepy, Sneezy, Happy, Bashful, and Grumpy are all separated,



in coolers of damp sand,



tucked in with sand blankets from their original nest,



and resting until they seem more active.



Derrick, Amanda, Rachel and Marcy at the Gulfarium will provide water and other nutrients if necessary, until they're ready to go, like Doc (photo above).

It's good to know they are in capable hands...



Clover, our rescued green from last year, is still living with the folks at the Gulfarium as well, and she's gotten so big.



Maybe she'll swim free soon as well!