Uncovering the secret journeys of sea turtles using satellite technology
Sea turtles have been swimming in the oceans for millions of years, but much of their lives remain shrouded in mystery, especially their movements during the so-called "lost years" after hatching. Thanks to advances in satellite technology, researchers are finally shedding light on this fascinating phase of their lives, revealing migration routes that stretch across vast oceanic distances.
In early June 2024, Donna Schello, an adult leatherback sea turtle, became the latest subject of an exciting research initiative. After laying about 80 eggs on a pristine Caribbean beach in Panama, she embarked on a journey that could change our understanding of sea turtle migration. With a satellite transmitter securely attached to her shell, Donna began participating in the Turtle Tour, an annual event organized by the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC). This marathon is no ordinary race; is a critical study of sea turtle behavior where the winner is the turtle that travels the greatest distance in three months.
Donna Schello, now likely between 20 and 90 years old, is competing against seven other leatherback turtles, all part of an effort to track and understand sea turtle migration patterns. Every year, scientists collect important data that helps protect these endangered creatures and their habitats.
What are "lost years"?
For many years, sea turtles' "lost years"—from hatching to maturity—remained a mystery. Once hatched, young turtles disappear into the open ocean, where they avoid observation until they are much older. However, satellite tracking is finally giving researchers the tools they need to map their movements and uncover key insights into their behavior.
Daniel Evans, a research biologist at STC, emphasizes the value of these tracking efforts. "Although the race lasts only three months, a complete turtle migration can take up to two years," he explains. The results not only provide scientists with valuable data on migration, but also aid in the development of conservation strategies to protect sea turtle populations around the world.
Shelley's Donna has been observed to lay 70 to 90 eggs per nesting period and may nest four to seven times per season. Based on previous seasons, she may have laid between 840 and 1,890 eggs since she was first observed in 2020. These data are critical to helping scientists assess population growth and the impact of environmental change on sea turtle survival.
How satellite tracking is saving sea turtles
STC has been tracking sea turtles for more than two decades, each year providing new insights into migration patterns, feeding grounds and the effects of climate change. Just last year, the loggerhead turtle was tracked migrating farther north than ever before, sparking new debate about how changing temperatures affect turtle behavior.
By better understanding the migratory patterns of sea turtles, scientists and conservationists can implement more effective protection for their habitats. Marine pollution, fishing nets and climate change pose significant threats to sea turtles, but with detailed data on their routes and behavior, efforts to mitigate these threats become much more targeted and effective.
Satellite technology is revealing the once-hidden journeys of sea turtles, giving scientists the information they need to protect these ancient mariners. As we continue to study their migration patterns, it is becoming increasingly clear that protecting sea turtles is essential to the health of the world's oceans. Thanks to initiatives like the Tour de Turtles and the work of organizations like the Sea Turtle Conservancy, we can give these fascinating creatures a chance to survive in our rapidly changing world.
Visit Sea Turtle Conservancy to learn more about ongoing efforts to protect sea turtles around the world.
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