4.1K Birds Spotted During Global Shorebird Count | |
During the first week of September, our shorebird team documented a total of 4,096 individual birds from 48 different species across Sanibel, Captiva, and surrounding areas! The most observed species? The bird behind SCCF’s logo — the royal tern (Thalasseus maximus). | | |
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Seeking Sponsors for Wines in the Wild!
We're excited to announce this year's Wines in the Wild, 6:30-9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8. Enjoy specially selected wines and food pairings under the night skies at our traditional "welcome back" celebration.
"It’s a great way to experience the warmth of our community and support SCCF’s historic role in protecting and caring for our coastal ecosystems," said co-founder Linda Uhler.
LEARN MORE & BECOME A SPONSOR
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Sea Turtle Update:
840 Nests; 15.6K Loggerhead Hatchlings Have Emerged
Since April 24, SCCF has documented 840 sea turtle nests and 15,685 emerged hatchlings on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, including:
- 836 loggerhead nests and 15,611 emerged loggerhead hatchlings
- 3 green turtle nests and 34 emerged green turtle hatchlings
- 1 leatherback nest and 40 emerged leatherback hatchlings
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Sea turtle nesting season lasts through the month of October. Call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663 to report stranded turtles or issues related to nests, lighting, beach furniture, or holes on the beach. | | |
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Rocket Bat House Installed at Bailey Homestead Preserve
As the latest effort to support our native bat population, SCCF installed a custom-built, rocket box-style bat house at the Bailey Homestead Preserve thanks to support from The Sanibel School PTA.
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Rachel Wynn Brings a Love of Marine Life to SCCF
Growing up around the waters of North Carolina, Rachel Wynn fell in love with marine life at a young age, which led her to pursue a biology degree from Clemson University.
As the Marine Lab's new Research Assistant, Rachel's primary responsibility is assisting with the operation and maintenance of the lab’s River, Estuary, and Coastal Observation Network (RECON).
LEARN MORE ABOUT RACHEL
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Island Real Estate Agents Take Deep Dive into SCCF
Last Wednesday, SCCF staff spent the day educating local real estate agents about our barrier island ecosystems. Our day-long course exploring native plants, water quality, wildlife, and habitats is offered once per year as part of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of REALTORS’ continuing education series.
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Western Everglades Restoration Project
Begins Federal Review Process
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Last week, the U.S. Army Corps Chief of Engineers signed the Western Everglades Restoration Project (WERP) Chief's Report. WERP will help reconnect the western Everglades with the greater Everglades ecosystem, making it a critical component of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. Restoring this hydrological and ecological connectivity will help us send more water south and reduce stress on the northern estuaries. With the signing of the Chief’s Report, the study’s recommended plan will begin the process of federal review and congressional consideration for inclusion in future Water Resources Development Act legislation to fund implementation.
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Adopt-a-Mangrove 2024-2025
Join Us for Upcoming Adoption Days!
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Meet the Natives:
Dwarf Palmetto
The dwarf palmetto (Sabal minor) is one of Florida’s 12 native palm species. Growing only 5 to 8 feet high, the trunk of this small palm is usually hidden underground. This swamp-loving species is highly tolerant of moisture, prefers full sun to part shade, and can tolerate some cold and drought.
See or purchase your own dwarf palmetto at SCCF’s Native Landscapes & Garden Center, open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday at 1300 Periwinkle Way!
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After School Adventures Back at Sanibel Sea School!
Dive into after-school fun with Sanibel Sea School! Whether you’re paddling, netting ocean critters, or creating beachy art, there’s no better way to unwind after a day in the classroom. Join us on Wednesdays from 3:30-5:30 p.m. for rotating activities that keep the fun fresh from September through May. Visitors welcome!
SIGN UP
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CITs Needed for Free Community Camps
Calling all teens ages 13-17! A few spots remain for Counselor-in-Training (CIT) roles in Sanibel Sea School's FREE Community Camps on Oct. 3 and Oct. 14. This is a great opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain hands-on experience, and make a positive impact.
REGISTER NOW
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Thanks in Advance to Sponsors & Partners! | |
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Coastal Watch is gearing up for the annual International Coastal Cleanup this Saturday, Sept. 21, and we’re incredibly grateful for the continued support of our sponsors and partners who are making this important event possible.
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There are still a few spots open to sign up and participate!
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Only 1 Spot Left for Master Naturalist Course!
There's only one spot left in the 6-week Florida Master Naturalist Coastal Systems course that begins the week of Oct. 31! The course will be taught by SCCF Adult Education Director Jenny Evans and Associate Instructor Jim Winn, and participants will learn about the habitats, flora, and fauna on our barrier islands and coastal communities.
LEARN MORE & REGISTER
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8th Grader Raises Funds (Again) to Support SCCF!
Jillian Hubbard (left), an eighth grader from New Jersey, has now raised money for SCCF for the second year in a row through her homemade crafts made from Sanibel shells. A gigantic thanks to Jillian and her parents Sue (right) and Dave for supporting our mission to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems!
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Next Captiva Bayside Adaptation Meeting: Oct. 10
The public is invited to the Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan Public Outreach Meeting 4 hosted by the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) on Oct. 10.
READ MORE
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We have multiple exciting positions open at SCCF! Join our team and spend your days immersed in our mission to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.
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SCCF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) founded
in 1967 on Sanibel Island, Florida
EIN 59-1205087
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