Written by: Joshua Perez. March 2022
This past weekend we celebrated Sea Turtle Day at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center! Families and friends joined us as we educated the community about the different sea turtle species that frequent our South Florida waters. We had various sea turtle shells and specimens on display for the public to ask questions and learn more about our marine life. Our friends from the Florida Atlantic Biomechanics (FAB) Lab and Shark Lab brought 3D-printed jaws and preserved shark skin! Gumbo Limbo’s Rehabilitation department had visitors practice treating turtles with honey, and their Marine Turtle Specialists demonstrated how nests are marked on the beach. We were all there to connect with our community and discuss their purpose and missions. Community engagement is one of our favorite responsibilities at the FAU Marine Lab because we can grow the public’s understanding of marine science and spark curiosity in our younger audience.
Additionally, we used the day to celebrate the release of our remaining turtles from the 2021 nesting season at the FAU Marine Lab. They received a boat ride out to the Gulf Stream as the festivities drew to a close. As the 2022 sea turtle nesting season is already upon us, we continue our work educating the community about nests and turtles. This work is imperative for a successful coexistence of both turtles and humans on our beaches - for this season and for future generations!
We look forward to seeing you at our next Sea Turtle Day at Gumbo Limbo!
