Research Internship at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (2)
Author: Megan Lovell
Faculty Supervisor: C. Tate Holbrook, Ph.D.
Abstract:
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center (GSTC), located on Jekyll Island, works to find a healthy balance between the human developing world and natural habitat. Native species such as endangered sea turtles are a top concern at the GSTC. Offering three different areas for conservation efforts of sea turtles, the GSTC provides a sea turtle hospital for rehabilitation, education, and research programs. Over the summer of 2016, I primarily spent my time on the beach at night with other research members tagging and collecting data from sea turtles. We also made sure the beach was free of white light and debris, ensuring easy nesting for upcoming turtles. During the day, research members would assemble signage and place appropriate screens on top of nests to help protect against predators. Once hatching season began, I helped out with nest excavations to determine emergence and hatching success. My knowledge has not only expanded greatly on sea turtles and steps on how to conserve their population, but also I better understand how ecosystems are intertwined and how one action can make a difference. I hope to stay a part of conservation efforts in my future career.
