 © April 21, 2009 - All rights reserved |
SARASOTA, Florida - A loggerhead sea turtle that scientists first tagged on Casey Key 21 years ago is recovering from an illness at Mote Marine Laboratory, a reminder of the growing number of sick sea turtles statewide and the beginning of nesting season.
The turtle, like hundreds of others this time of year, was probably on its way back to Casey Key to mate and nest. Mote scientists have recorded the same turtle laying eggs on the beach 11 times in the past, most often in June.
It is unclear whether she will recover in time to nest this year.
Nesting season begins May 1, but male and female sea turtles are starting to congregate offshore now to mate. In addition to watching for turtles on the beach, boats should look out for turtles at sea, said Mote spokeswoman Nadine Slimak.
The sick turtle was found by wildlife officers near the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club. Doctors at Mote believe she is suffering from lethargic loggerhead syndrome, a mysterious illness affecting hundreds of turtles.
Tagging data reveals that the Mote turtle nested several times on Casey Key in 1988, 1996, 1999 and 2003. Most turtles nest more than once during the season and always return to the beach where they were born.
Casey Key is the most popular nesting beach in Sarasota County. Last year, scientists identified 452 loggerhead nests on that beach, out of more than 1,100 nests total countywide.
The start of the season triggers a handful of beach regulations meant to help the turtles and their hatchlings survive their brief stay on land.
When turtles hatch, they follow the moonlight to find their way to sea. During nesting season, beach residents must keep their lights out at night, or use special lighting, to avoid confusing the hatchlings. Beach furniture must also be carried in at night, to avoid trapping adults.
Despite Sarasota County's high numbers, loggerheads are nesting 26 percent less statewide compared wth two decades ago. Many more turtles each year are also being found dead or sick.
The sick female is responding to treatment, Slimak said. If she becomes healthy enough for release, Mote will put a radio transmitter on her to find out where she winters.