Gordon’s Surprise for Alabama Point
Oct 5 …
Greetings,
My day started with a steaming cup of coffee served while still abed by my sweetie. I knew it was going to be a good one!
I quickly dressed and headed to the beach a little before five. I did a visual check on I-11 and headed to I-10 since it appeared to be the most active. A light mist was in the air and a very cool breeze was blowing. The condo lights provided a clear view in the dark. WHOA! I saw baby turtles scampering around I-10 and more emerging. I called Carrie to text the team and started digging the trench. Patsy soon appeared and helped. As we were getting the first babies in the trench Peggy B came to assist. George came as dawn was approaching and the last of 44 babies were entering the water. I left to go get a towel from I-11 and check it with a scope for sounds. As I got within view I saw turtle tracks! OH MY! A daytime hatching was happening . Fourteen babies were headed to the water and more were appearing in the sand. I quickly called for help (thank goodness for cell phones!) and George, Peggy & Patsy ran to my aid. We got 66 baby turtles to the water despite the birds. Visitors from Tennessee yelled and swatted as the birds flew near. I checked I-9 on the way home wondering what I would find there. All was quiet. We headed to our homes for a well-deserved cup of java. We enjoyed another great adventure in Paradise!
The team will closely monitor I-10 & I-11. The cool days seem to be producing day hatchings. Donna has midday and Carrie has sunset. Peggy B, Patsy & I will be checking also.
See you on the beach,
Turtle Mom
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