Sea turtle nesting season began on May 1st and continues to October 31st. During this time many beachfront properties participate in a program called “Lights Out.” This program is designed to reduce the amount of artificial lighting near the beaches that can disorientate hatchlings and prevent them from reaching the ocean.
Please join us in spreading the word and Helping Us Reach Our Goal of Protecting 200+ Nest this Season by Adopting a Nest Today!
2013 SEA TURTLE NESTS
Winter has inspired thousands due to her unique situation. Despite losing a portion of her tail and having the odds against her, she persevered. In September 2011, the blockbuster film, Dolphin Tale, was released highlighting her inspiring story. Since the films release, thousands have flocked to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to visit her and our other resident animals.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers a variety of different animal interaction programs that are available to guests. The newest program being offered is a once in a lifetime experience. The program is called “Assist Winter’s Trainer.” The participants receive VIP care and treatment by sitting poolside with Winter’s Trainer. During the program participants will assist in several of Winter’s behaviors. Some of these behaviors may include match to sample (matching pool toys to
toys held in hand), painting, window play, tail setup, and much more! While interacting with the trainers, participants will learn about Winter’s physical therapy and training. Each program is unique and never the same!
On April 25, we held our first Assist Winter’s Trainer Program! It was a huge success and hit with our participant. Both Winter and the participant seemed to have a lot of fun and enjoy one another!
Hello Everyone,
Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Stranding Team has continued to respond to multiple strandings! Our team has responded to two live bottlenose dolphins, one in Citrus County and one in Levy County. The dolphin in Citrus County was observed swimming in a small area, for about three weeks (photo below). Stranding Team members monitored the animal for a week, and collected vital, behavioral, and environmental data. After a week of observations, the animal was no longer seen. We are hopeful that the animal was able to successfully leave the area, and return to his/her normal home range.
The dolphin in Levy County was reported due to an extensive injury located on the dorsal portion of the body. After viewing the caller’s photo, it seems that the injury was likely a result of sunburn. First Responders were dispatched to locate and monitor the animal. Unfortunately, the animal was not located. CMA’s Stranding Team will respond accordingly if further calls are received on this animal.
In addition to stranding events and trainings, CMA’s Stranding Team has been proactive via conducting education outreach events at the Dolphin Tale premiere at Pier 60 (photo above). Members educated the public on the do’s and don’ts of strandings and respectful ways to observe dolphins in the wild!
Thanks to all of CMA’s Stranding Team volunteers who have aided us this past month! We could not pursue our mission without you!
Thank you,
CMA Stranding Team
