The islands haven't been re-opened yet, but we are already getting some our annual NATURAL visitors...
Sea turtle nesting season started on April 15, and already the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation has found its first nest. A 6-foot leatherback turtle was found (a rare occurrence for this species) and posted (the original social distancing). There is also a screen to keep coyotes and bobcats (they're out there) from snacking on the eggs, but large enough for hatchlings to slip through. Over the weekend, Captiva found their first nesting as well, so we're off to a great start.
Our own Taitum Alongi volunteered last year monitoring tracks, nests, and hatching and posting photos to our Facebook page, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Unfortunately, at this time the SCCF is taking on this year's challenge alone and not using volunteers for their protection from COVID-19. As soon as some of the restrictions are lifted volenteers will be back out there.
The season runs from now until October 31. If you happen to see turtle crawl tracks in an unmarked area of the beach, please call the SCCF's Sea Turtle hotline at (978) 728-3663. For more information about keeping beaches safe for sea turtles (as well as other wildlife), be sure to visit their website at www.sccf.org.
Southwest Florida had some strong weather and wind last weekend, and when that happens, there tends to be new shells washing up within a day or two. Be sure to check out the piles of shells on our Facebook page (Sanibel Holiday Vacation Rentals) and feel free to share some if you have any. We also feature great sunrise, sunset, and beach videos here.
We will get through these troubled times and we hope you will join us soon. We can't wait to SEA you, so Book Direct and Save with Sanibel Holiday today.