Earthwatch's Tracking Sea Turtles in the Bahamas

“Swimming With Sea Turtles in the Bahamas” kicked off its 2014 research season on February 13th with a team of 9 spirited and eager volunteers. A second team of 8 volunteers arrived on April 10th to continue monitoring and data collection.

Turtle activity is strongest in the mid-summer to fall months, and this is when the majority of data collection will take place. The next teams of Earthwatch volunteers are due to arrive in the field at the end of June, and will consist of two dozen teenagers. Earthwatch reserves portions of many of its programs specifically for teens, who will receive a modified curriculum designed to enhance their learning experience, and provide them with additional resources they can use as they decide their future plans for higher education and careers. Earthwatch has a notable track record of inspiring teens to pursue science careers, including some who have gone on to become Earthwatch scientists themselves!

The 2014 research season in the Bahamas will conclude with a flurry of activity from 5 consecutive teams of volunteers from August 22nd – November 16th, with each team joining the research for 10 days. At this time, we expect that more than 60 volunteers will have participated and more than $150,000 will have been raised to support the many costs of this critical research, ranging from boat maintenance, to field and lab equipment, to room and board for the volunteers.

Thank you for your ongoing interest in and support of Earthwatch’s turtle conservation work in the Bahamas! None of this work would be possible without the commitment and generosity of donors like you!

Sincerely,

Heather Wilcox