SEA TURTLES!

Why I picked this topic

• To help my readers understand how important sea turtles are to the ecosystem

• To provide information on how to protect this endangered species

• To give tips on what to do if you see a turtles nest.

What Do Sea Turtles Do?

• They graze the bottoms of the ocean getting rid of old grass and algae. This keeps the grass nutrient rich and benefits the other fish living in the area.

• They break down hard poisonous sponge so the other animals can feed on smaller, softer parts.

• They consume large amounts of jellyfish keeping the population in check.

When and Where Do Sea Turtles Nest?

• Nesting season is from May 1st though October 31st

• Mama turtles dig holes in the sand and lay 100-150 eggs at a time

• 1 mama turtle can lay up to 8 nests• Baby turtles hatch 60 days later and

use the reflection of the moon on the water to find the ocean.

What are some dangers to Sea Turtles

• Street lights by the ocean during nesting season

• Beach goers that don’t look out for nests

• Litter that can be mistaken for food.

What Can You Do?

• During nesting season, keep lights by the ocean dimmed

• Make sand dunes to prevent the baby turtles from going towards the street.

• Report a nest to your local wildlife preserve so they can mark it and keep animals away from it

• Don’t litter. Sea turtles often mistake plastic as food and suffocate themselves.

Where did I get my info?

• Antigua Sea Turtle Project blog• Oceana.org• Myrtle Beach Sea Turtle Patrol blog