Improve Protection Efforts Through Data and Outreach
Since most research conducted on marine turtles has been carried out on nesting beaches and well over 90% of a sea turtle’s life is spent in the water — feeding, mating, migrating and doing whatever else a sea turtle does when no one is watching, we are missing important information that can help us better protect sea turtles. In particular, to adequately protect sea turtles in all their habitats, we must learn more about their migratory patterns, their behavior at sea, where their marine habitats are located, how the turtles use these different habitats, and the migration routes turtles travel between habitats. Research into the behavior and life cycle of marine turtles has taught us that these creatures do not generally nest and feed in the same area. We now know that sea turtles are highly migratory, often traveling hundreds or even thousands of miles between the beaches where they lay their eggs and the foraging (feeding) grounds where they spend much of their time at sea.
Tracking as Educational Tool
Satellite tracking is also used as an educational tool. Through our Sea Turtle Migration-Tracking Education Program and the Tour de Turtles you can view regularly updated maps showing the migratory movements of endangered sea turtles being tracked by satellite. By providing a unique look at the migratory habits of sea turtles we hope you will be inspired to learn more about sea turtle biology, the threats they face, and the ways in which you can help protect marine turtles. Anyone can participate in this education program, but for teachers wishing to incorporate this program into classroom activities we have downloadable Educator’s Guide.
