The sun was setting at Juno Beach as the last of the beachgoers made their exit. We were enjoying our last few moments of solitude under the pier as we noticed a strange movement in the sand just a few feet away. The scene quickly took shape as the first of many Loggerhead hatchlings breached the sand and emerged from the nest. Dozens of Half-Dollar sized turtles quickly emerged and began their Race to The Sea. It was truly a sight like none-other. The sand was covered in a carpet of brown as their legs churned like paddles on a mission. Ten minutes later, the last of the hatchlings disappeared into the surf in one of Nature's best parades.

 

The beauty and amazement of the moment was only offset by nature's reality-The plight of these Sea Turtles is beyond difficult. Along Juno Beach between March & August, thousands of eggs lie buried in the sand-incubating for 2 months before they hatch. It's one of the most densely populated sea turtle nesting sites in the world. This is due to the gulf stream current bending towards the coast and its proximity to the Sargasso Sea where they live out their first few years. Their journey is perilous as only 1 in 10,000 survive to adulthood. They face multiple predators such as birds, crabs, ants, rodents, and of course pollution and humans. There are 3 main species of sea turtles nesting along our coast -Green, Loggerheads, and Leatherbacks. Each species is now federally protected under the Endangered Species Act. These unique creatures really need a friend...and a great friend they have!

 

The Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) is located only 30 minutes from Ibis directly on the Atlantic Ocean in Juno Beach. It is a world-renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of ocean ecosystems, with a special focus on endangered and threatened sea turtles. The center has become a pillar of marine science, education, and public outreach. It was recently named the "No. 1 Best Free Attraction" in USA Today's Readers Choice Awards. The center hosts thousands of school children each year through field trips, turtle talks, summer camp, and other educational activities. More than 350,000 visitors come to the center each year to explore, learn, and witness firsthand the lifesaving work on behalf of marine life. Visitors can witness the only full-service veterinary hospital for sea turtles between Orlando and the Florida Keys.

 

The hospital cares for sick and injured sea turtles and provides tanks for disoriented hatchlings to stay safe before they are given a second chance to make it from the beach to the ocean. Turtles suffering from boat strikes, entanglements, or illnesses are treated and released to the sea when possible. Researchers from the center monitor a 9.5 mile stretch of beach on Florida's east coast. They surveyed over 15,000 sea turtle nests-making Juno Beach one of the most densely populated nesting sites in the world. The importance of the work done at LMC extends far beyond the shores of Juno Beach as they work closely with over 90 partners across the globe. They also spearhead "Project Shield" which is a multifaceted conservation program focused on addressing human-caused threats to sea turtles. It offers solutions related to fishing piers, boaters, and beach-side businesses to minimize negative impacts on the turtles. Pollution prevention and global conservation are the focus. 

 

The LMC had very humble beginnings.  Almost 50 years ago Juno Beach resident Eleanor Fletcher, known as "The Turtle Lady" noticed the abundant sea turtle nesting on Juno Beach and became curious about why hatchlings headed landward rather than to the sea. This sparked some of the earliest sea turtle research in the area. She soon realized the encroachment of man threatened the turtle's natural instincts and well-being. She began educating children about sea turtles and the need for protection and conservation. This resulted in establishing The Children's Museum of Juno beach in 1983. Reflecting on an expanded mission saw the name change to The Marinelife Center in 1990. Today's Loggerhead Marinelife Center took shape in 2007 when the organization relocated to the new 12,000 sq ft "green" facility complete with a state-of-the-art full service veterinary hospital, exhibit hall, outdoor classroom, research lab, and resource center. Recent refurbishment includes Loggerhead Park with its guarded beach, nature trail, playground, and picnic area.  

 

A visit to the center begins with one of the over 400 volunteers welcoming you to "The House of Turtle" as they quickly highlight the day's special activities and provide directions to the various exhibits. There is no fee, but donations are encouraged as funds collected go directly to the rescue and care of sea turtles. The center relies on the generosity of the public, volunteers, and corporate partners to fund its hospital operations, educational programs, and conservation research. It quickly becomes obvious that LMC holds interest from the youngest toddler to the seasoned nature lover. You notice the display wall of saltwater aquariums showcasing native marine species enhanced by original artwork and graphics. The atrium is connected to a marine-themed gift store featuring educational books, clothing, & crafts for both children and adults. As you stroll into the main outdoor courtyard-you can't help but feel an infectious energy and the passion of all those involved. Each of the large rehabilitation tanks holding recovering turtles are tended by an informative and engaging staff. They not only discuss the history and condition of the turtle but welcome even the quirkiest questions with great patience.

 

There are interesting exhibits along the perimeter including a variety of turtle skeletons and a replica of a prehistoric Archelon sea turtle. Detailed maps and graphs show nesting sites and marked nests all along the beach. The immersion continues with a walk to the next level to an incredible Reef Tank with sharks, rays, and a wide assortment of marine fish. More hands-on activities are found as you make your way to an interactive 3D Ocean display allowing the young guests to digitally paint and customize their own sea-creature as it swims back into the reef for all to see. There are also beautifully lit displays of Lionfish and Jellyfish to enjoy. Educational lectures and talks are scheduled throughout the month. 

 

Most visitors complete their journey wanting more with a wish to become further involved in the center's core mission of conserving, educating, research, & rehabilitation. This desire for additional participation can be accomplished through several avenues. These include Informative beach walks, classes and lectures throughout the month, guided hospital tours, organized clean-ups, and of course volunteering at the center itself. 

LMC also hosts frequent sea turtle releases which draw large crowds and serves as inspiring reminders of the importance of marine stewardship. Loggerhead marine center is much more than a rescue hospital or educational facility-it's a vibrant hub of environmental action. Through its fascinating exhibits, innovative research, and passionate team - LMC continues to lead the charge in marine conservation. Whether you're making the trek from Ibis with your friends, bringing your grandchildren, or visiting guests - a visit to Loggerhead offers a powerful firsthand connection to the ocean and the amazing creatures that call it Home!