May 3, 2009

Turtle Haven


While we were in Florida we went to visit the The Loggerhead Marinelife Center, an ocean conservation organization and sea turtle hospital at Juno Beach.

Cullen had his fin amputated but is doing fine now!

We had seen several turtle nesting areas on the beach that had been taped off and bore signs of warning to intruders.

These eggs are in an exhibit at the Center.

The LMC is responsible for finding those nests and protecting them. They also find turtles that are hurt or sick and treat them at their facility. We saw about seven turtles in various stages of recovery on our visit. The staff is very small, but with the help of volunteers they forge on in their mission: To promote conservation of Florida’s coastal ecosystem through education, research, and rehabilitation, with a special focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles.

This turtle's shell was damaged, probably by a boat propeller.

This is a great place to visit with the family. You will see the turtle patients, talk with staff and perhaps see them treating the turtles, and learn a lot in the learning exhibit. It is a small facility so it will not be overwhelming for younger children.


Staff prepare a turtle for treatment.

There is also an Adopt-a-Turtle program, special events and nighttime turtle walks, and story hours at the center. You can also hold a birthday party there!

To plan a visit contact the center online or at:
Loggerhead Marinelife Center of Juno Beach
14200 US Hwy. One
Juno Beach FL 33408
561-627-8280 fax 561-627-8305