With nesting season at its peak, SCCF staff and volunteers have been working hard to mark and monitor a total of 388 nests, with 85 nests on Captiva and 303 on Sanibel. 

 

In preparation for the upcoming Captiva Erosion Prevention District’s beach nourishment project, SCCF has been permitted to relocate new nests laid along the stretch of beach where construction will begin. This project is necessary for the eroding beach; however, many sea turtle nests will still be incubating at this time. To avoid impacts, we have relocated 14 nests so far.

 

SCCF has also started a new research project to characterize the physical properties of sand along Sanibel and Captiva and evaluate how these variables affect the groundwater flow, moisture content, and temperature inside the nest cavity. 

This project entails measuring sand size, color, and compaction, and monitoring temperature and moisture sensors in the egg chamber.

 

Groundwater wells placed near the nest will show how the groundwater level fluctuates and how it may influence hatchling success. 

 

“Evaluating these covariates together will hopefully reveal how they impact embryonic development, nest fate, and hatching and emergence success,” said Biologist Jack Brzoza.

 

SCCF reminds visitors and residents to follow our Coastal Wildlife Tips and to share them on social media.