The Sounds of a Sea Turtle Nest

Attachments

Sea Turtle Activity Update July 18.docx.pdf

Sea turtle monitor Tyler Beck uses a stethoscope to listen in on the hatchlings below the sand to determine their “estimated time of arrival.” It’s been over 60 days, and they are due. 

Did you know that hatchlings make noises under the sand before emerging? According to sea turtle experts, hatchlings start vocalizing several days before breaking their eggshells. These sounds are described as burps, chirps, and clicks along with sounds of tapping or scrapping of shells as embryos struggle to break open their shells.

Also waiting close by in the dark are possible predators such as raccoons, coyotes, and even wild boars. Raccoons and coyotes are known for their acute sense of hearing and can capture sounds, such as hatchlings making noises underneath the sand. They dig up nests and scatter hatchlings all over and those babies that don’t get eaten escape to the water. Some disorient towards a bright light nearby only to be attacked by fire ants in the vegetation.

Since June 28th, Marco has had 21 coyote depredations.