MARINELAND, FL – As storm clouds loom over coastal areas, a vulnerable group of animals face a critical battle for survival.
Young washback sea turtles, disoriented and often weak after their tumultuous journey from the nest to the ocean, are particularly threatened by inclement weather, which tends to increase in intensity around this time of year.
However, you can play a role in their rehabilitation by adopting a hatchling at a local turtle hospital.
Scientific organizations, including the UF Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, are working tirelessly to raise awareness about their plight and the urgent need for protective measures.
What Are Washback Turtles?
Washback turtles are juvenile sea turtles that become stranded along coastlines, often because of strong currents or adverse weather conditions.
Found in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, these turtles are at a pivotal stage in their lives. After hatching, they embark on a perilous journey to the ocean, but many find themselves washed ashore, facing numerous challenges.
The Impact of Bad Weather
Extreme weather events significantly impact washback turtles. Heavy rains, strong winds, and high surf in August and through the Fall season can increase mortality rates among these young reptiles.
The disorientation caused by turbulent waters often pushes them far from their natural habitats, making it difficult to find food and evade predators.
The laboratory’s studies indicate that when washback turtles are stranded on the beach, they face heightened risks of dehydration, temperature stress, and predation. The compounded effects of bad weather can exacerbate these threats, leading to alarming population declines.
Washback Season: A Time for Action
Have you heard of “washback season?”
This critical time occurs when baby sea turtles, having hatched earlier in the year, swim out to the line of sargassum seaweed located 50-100 miles offshore. However, fall storms and strong ocean currents often push these tiny turtles back to the beach. Already exhausted from their initial swim, they require urgent help to survive.
How You Can Help
The Sea Turtle Hospital at the UF Whitney Laboratory cares for hundreds of washbacks each season. You can support their efforts by symbolically adopting a washback, even naming one yourself!
In 2023, over 150 washback turtles were named through the generosity of donors. This year, the goal is to name 200 tiny turtles.
By contributing $20 or more, you’ll receive a personalized washback adoption certificate via email, making a meaningful difference in the lives of these adorable hatchlings.
Individuals can also make a meaningful impact by NOT picking up turtles and putting the hatchlings back in the water. This can cause more harm than good as they are often too weak to swim and won’t be able to reach the safe floating mats of seaweed located miles offshore.
Anyone who finds a “washback” should call MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife at 1-888-404-3922 and, if directed, deliver to its drop-off location in front of the Whitney Laboratory Administration Building.