July 8: From Lisa Graham (OB Team Lead)
Activity last night. 4 false crawls – feel certain same turtle. Thanks to Cathy (in her back yard again) for running down the beach to try to track her down. […clip…]
9:19 pm Hotline call – turtle was on beach, people chased her away at Holiday Inn.
9:44 pm OBPD call – turtle on beach at Windward Point – scared away by crab hunters by time I got there
10:45 pm Facebook – turtle being harassed on beach at Romar Tower. Cathy and I went by foot. OBPD, Brian and Jennifer drove down. Good people tried to stop kids and adults with cameras but they ran her off.
10:51 pm Hotline call – turtle at Sugar Beach, requested OBPD respond since Cathy and I on beach in D.
10:54 pm OBPD call – turtle ran off.
Got a crawl measure 38″ at Sugar Beach this morning, Reported by Renee. Other crawls not identifiable.
GOOD NEWS – GSP got her!!! Feel so much better, she was trying really hard to nest in OB. Glad we did not lose the eggs to the gulf!
Have a great day in Turtleland!!
Lisa
Blog Master: OK I’ve gotta say something here. Based on the number of false crawls (aborted nesting attempts) last night, and over all this season, If you happen to be lucky enough to see a nesting sea turtle Please Be Respectful. Do Not use a flash to take a photo – their eyes are sensitive. Do Not shine a flashlight on her – same reason. Do Not get in front of her – stay to the side so she can nest without fear. Do Not get too close – maintain at least 10 feet distance between you and the turtle. She’s big and is easy to see. Remember, she is giving birth (laying her eggs) in order for her species to survive. If you see someone not following these suggestions, ask them to stop. If they do not, call the police or dial 911. Harassment of an endangered species is a federal crime.