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Dr. Gerry and I just got back from an amazing trip "Down Under." We had the fortune to visit with a fantastic organization, "Care for Hedlund", which is the Western Australian version of "Save-A-Turtle".

We spent two days with Kelly Howlett, president of the organization, and her group of volunteers walking the beaches monitoring Flatback nesting. These unique sea turtles, which are only found in this small geographic area, nest with the high tides. So, if the high tides occur during the daylight hours, that is when they make their crawls! Over the two afternoons and evenings on patrol we saw about two dozen animals come ashore to nest. They don't label the nests, rather, they GPS track them all and monitor for hatching, which takes only about 45 days.

Douglas Mader, MS, DVM

Diplomate, ABVP (Canine/Feline)

Diplomate, ABVP (Reptile/Amphibian)

Diplomate, ECZM (Herpetology)

Human-Animal Bond Certified

Fear Free Certified

www.DougMader.com

Baby turtle on Keewaydin Island during 2024 nesting season. Conservancy of Southwest Florida/WGCU

Debbie, Francine, Milton and Helene were not kind to turtle nesting along the Collier County coastline this season causing an early end to the season and washing out disturbingly close to half of the late-season nests.

But the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s sea turtle research team still documented 425 nests during the March to October nesting season on Keewaydin Island with a total of 422 loggerhead nests and three green sea turtle nests surviving.

While the nesting numbers were steady, it was those aforementioned hurricanes disrupted hatching success.

READ MORE HERE

Save-A-Turtle was thrilled to make a splash at this year’s Nautical Expo, proudly hosted by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce.

The event was nothing short of amazing, offering a perfect blend of delicious food, unique shopping, and vibrant community spirit. Visitors explored one-of-a-kind treasures from local vendors, indulged in mouthwatering culinary delights, and connected with fellow ocean lovers.

Our team had a fantastic time engaging with attendees, sharing our mission to protect sea turtles, and raising awareness about the challenges these incredible creatures face. From lively conversations to hands-on activities, the day was filled with opportunities to inspire action and celebrate our shared love for the marine environment.

A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth to learn more, ask questions, or support our cause. Your enthusiasm and dedication fuel our work to protect sea turtles and their habitats.

We’re already looking forward to next year’s event—see you there!

Searching for a unique gift that truly makes an impact? How about adopting a baby sea turtle, purchasing one of our branded insulated Pirani reusable cups or CHECK OUT OUR NEW SHIRTS! Not only will this purchase support crucial conservation efforts, but it also creates an unforgettable gift experience.

Dive in and make a difference today!



SHOP HERE!

Recent boat strike victim! Red arrow indicates start of strike wound.

It's an all too common occurrence when boats and marine animals meet on the water... boat strikes! Sadly, we receive calls on these occurrences FAR TOO OFTEN.

One way that you can help protect marine life when you’re out enjoying the waterways is to have a designated marine animal spotter on board whenever possible. Somebody that is looking out constantly for the dolphins, manatees and sea turtles that may be found in our waterways.

Additionally, please make sure you’re following slow speed and no wake signs.



If you encounter an injured marine animal while you’re enjoying your boating time or out on the beach in Florida, please call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Outreach poster developed by NOAA Fisheries and the Hawai'i Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation

Save-A-Turtle Board Meeting

(meeting link is static and good for each monthly meeting)

Monday, January 6th

6:30 - 8:30PM

Zoom Link

Meeting ID: 829 7023 2616

Passcode: 210787

One tap mobile

+13052241968,,82970232616#,,,,*210787# US

+16469313860,,82970232616#,,,,*210787# US

President: Heather Skelley

Vice President / Treasurer: Dawn Bowles

Secretary: Scott Cator

Board Member: Gentrie Billbrough

Board Member: Jennifer DeMaria

Board Member: Alyssa Gruebele

Board Member: Chelsea Oatman

Board Member: Dave Wiggins

Board Member: Jana Wiggins

Technical Advisor: Harry Appel