You are looking at the tracks of a loggerhead (Caretta caretta) which has come ashore to lay her eggs. Note the rather rambling path she takes. [Tire tracks are on the right edge of the photo.]
These photos help explain how large holes left by folks playing on the beach could cause problems for a sea turtle struggling to nest. Plus, exterior lights or even bright indoor lights can disorient them at night, so be sure to draw your shades/curtains if you live on the beach.
I just discovered Kirsten's fascinating blog. Since she is on the beach daily, she has some fantastic shots you should check out on her unofficial National Park Service blog.
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2 comments:
DJ
Thanks for the link to Kirsten's blog. I remember the amazing pictures you took last year of the hatchings. I've been hooked on the sea turtles' plight to nest ever since.
That's great, CT! I was really impressed when I saw her blog too. I'm hopeful that the more we see about these magnificent creatures, the more people will be want to learn more about them and go that extra mile to make the environment better for them.
I'm also hoping that I'll make the grade as a volunteer. I can be out there turtle-sitting at night, then jumpin' on the phone to call in the experts when they get ready to surface. It's an incredible experience.
DJ
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