Sea Turtle Conservation Updates: Nesting Highlights, Calendar Contest, and Virtual Race Invitation!

As the nesting season winds down in Florida, exciting activities continue at the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s (STC) project sites in Panama and Costa Rica. From the hatching of majestic leatherbacks to the peak nesting of green turtles in Tortuguero, there’s a flurry of sea turtle activity we’d love to share with you.

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Nesting Season Highlights

Despite the conclusion of Florida’s nesting season, our dedicated teams in Panama are witnessing remarkable numbers. Here’s a snapshot of the nest counts through August 31 at our Panama sites:

  • Chiriquí: 2,539 leatherback, 1,408 hawksbill, 5 green
  • Soropta: 851 leatherback, 25 hawksbill, 6 green
  • Drago: 30 leatherback, 88 hawksbill, 1 green
  • Bluff: 200 leatherback, 143 hawksbill
  • Playa Larga: 88 leatherback, 73 hawksbill, 6 green
  • Playa Roja: 19 leatherback, 145 hawksbill
  • Zapatillas: 1 leatherback, 902 hawksbill

The significant numbers, especially the 902 hawksbill nests at Zapatillas, are encouraging signs for the species’ recovery. Leatherbacks are hatching, and hawksbills are nesting in strong numbers, showcasing the success of our conservation efforts.

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Submit Your Photos to STC’s Calendar Contest!

Are you a talented photographer with a passion for sea turtles? STC is excited to announce our annual Sea Turtle Calendar Contest, and we want your best sea turtle photos!

Submission Details:

  • Deadline: Submit your photos by September 22, 2024.
  • Email: Send submissions to lexie@conserveturtles.org.
  • Requirements:
    • Include your name, a brief description of the image, location, date it was taken, and the Photography Permission Form.
    • Images must be submitted by the actual photographer or include written permission from the photographer.
    • Photos should depict turtles in a natural setting and adhere to turtle-friendly guidelines (e.g., no flash images of nesting turtles, no images of people handling turtles).
    • Initial submissions should be small files (no larger than 10 MB). High-resolution versions must be available if selected.
    • Limit of three photographs per photographer.

Prizes:

Winners will be featured in STC’s annual calendar, monthly e-newsletter, website, and social media pages. Each winner will receive two free calendars and an STC t-shirt (U.S. winners only).

Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your photography while supporting sea turtle conservation!

Sign Up for the 5th Annual Tour de Turtles Virtual Race!

Join sea turtle enthusiasts from around the globe at the finish line by participating in STC’s 5th Annual 5k/10k Virtual Run! Whether you prefer running, walking, swimming, or skating, you can contribute to sea turtle conservation from anywhere in the world.

Event Details:

  • Dates: Participate any time between October 26 – November 1.
  • Registration:
    • Basic Package: $45 per person, includes a special edition turtle medal and a runner’s bib.
    • Optional Merchandise: This year, STC is partnering with FLOAT to offer the official Tour de Turtles Virtual Run shirt, available in multiple colors, styles, and fabrics. Browse shirt selections here.
    • Note: Shirts must be ordered by September 23, so don’t wait!

Race Packets:

For those who have already signed up, race packets will be mailed out in early October.

Support a Great Cause:

All funds raised will support our ongoing sea turtle conservation and research programs. Your participation helps protect these incredible creatures and their habitats.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether you’re capturing the beauty of sea turtles through your lens, lacing up your running shoes, or simply spreading the word, your support makes a significant impact. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for sea turtles worldwide.

For more information and updates, visit our website or follow us on social media. Let’s make waves in sea turtle conservation!

Sea Turtle Conservancy is the world’s oldest sea turtle research and conservation group. Our mission is to ensure the survival of sea turtles through research, education, advocacy, and protection of their natural habitats.

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