TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS EARTHWATCH TEEN TEAM 2017

Transcription

1 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS EARTHWATCH TEEN TEAM 2017

2 DEAR EARTHWATCHER, On behalf of all the scientists involved with this research, I want to welcome you and thank you for choosing to join our exciting project in The Bahamas! Through this project, you will get a chance not only to see beautiful sea turtles up close, but also to learn a great deal about their biology and ecology, and, of course, collect data that will directly contribute to our understanding of how we might conserve them. We anticipate that your time in The Bahamas will be a varied and productive period. We ll begin by training you in the various field methodologies we use and on how to recognize the species we ll be surveying. Following training, we ll collect data by snorkeling in tidal mangrove creeks and by conducting video surveys, as well as tagging and releasing turtles all in beautiful and unspoiled coastal habitats. Each day s data will then be entered into the project database, eventually leading to a very comprehensive data set that you will directly contribute to. The scientific team will then be able to analyze the data and make both scientific discoveries and management recommendations. The Cape Eleuthera Institute is also an exciting place where you can learn about other marine research and conservation issues directly from scientists and live on a green campus. Tropical fieldwork is hard work, with long days in the water, rain or shine, but very satisfying when you reflect on what has been achieved by you and the Earthwatch team. I look forward to working with you in The Bahamas! Yours sincerely, Annabelle Brooks CONNECT WITH OTHER EARTHWATCHERS! FIND US ON FACEBOOK AT FACEBOOK.COM/ EARTHWATCH OR ON AND ON YOUTUBE AT YOUTUBE.COM/ EARTHWATCHINSTITUTE

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL INFORMATION... 2 TRIP PLANNER...3 THE RESEARCH... 4 DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD... 7 ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD... 8 PROJECT CONDITIONS SAFETY TRAVEL TIPS EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST...14 PROJECT STAFF RECOMMENDED READING LITERATURE CITED EMERGENCY NUMBERS TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

4 GENERAL INFORMATION TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS EARTHWATCH SCIENTISTS Annabelle Brooks, Dr. Karen Bjorndal, Dr. Alan Bolten RESEARCH SITE Cape Eleuthera Institute, Eleuthera Island, The Bahamas Complete travel information is not available in this version of the briefing. EXPEDITION DATES Teen Team 4: Jun. 21 Jun. 29, 2017 Teen Team 5: Jul. 29 Aug. 6, 2017 * Teen Teams are open to 15- to 18-year-olds (18-year-olds may participate if they finished their last year of high school in the previous school year). 16- and 17-year-olds may also participate on standard teams if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please contact Earthwatch with any questions. 2 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017

5 TRIP PLANNER TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS TRIP PLANNER IMMEDIATELY q Make sure you understand and agree to Earthwatch s Terms and Conditions and the Participant Code of Conduct. q If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance, note that some policies require purchase when your expedition is booked. 90 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION q Log in at earthwatch.org to complete your volunteer forms. q Pay any outstanding balance for your expedition. q Book travel arrangements (see the Travel Planning section for details). q If traveling internationally, make sure your passport is current and, if necessary, obtain a visa for your destination country. 60 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION q Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations for your project site. q Review the Packing Checklist to make sure you have all the clothing, personal supplies and equipment needed. 30 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION q Leave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with a relative or friend. q Leave copies of your passport, visa, and airline tickets with a relative or friend. Read this expedition briefing thoroughly. It provides the most accurate information available at the time of your Earthwatch scientist s project planning, and will likely answer any questions you have about the project. However, please also keep in mind that research requires improvisation, and you may need to be flexible. Research plans evolve in response to new findings, as well as to unpredictable factors such as weather, equipment failure, and travel challenges. To enjoy your expedition to the fullest, remember to expect the unexpected, be tolerant of repetitive tasks, and try to find humor in difficult situations. If there are any major changes in the research plan or field logistics, Earthwatch will make every effort to keep you well informed before you go into the field TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

6 THE RESEARCH TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS THE STORY The green sea turtle and the more elusive hawksbill sea turtle are in trouble (Wallace et al. 2001, Hamann et al. 2010). Even though the Bahamian government has made it illegal to catch them in the country s waters, to save these endangered species from further decline, researchers need to ensure their habitats are protected from coastal development. In their juvenile years, sea turtles primarily feed on the seagrass found in shallow waters (Bjorndal & Bolten 2010). Although scientists know that these habitats are critical for young turtles, they don t know exactly how and why turtles choose them and move between them. The seagrass beds, coral reefs, and mangrove creeks, where young turtles find food, vary in size, types of vegetation, presence of predators, and a host of other features. Presumably, turtles forage in habitats with the most optimal conditions. So what are these optimal conditions? You ll help answer this crucial question by monitoring the abundance of turtles in different areas and tracking the physical features of habitats that attract the most turtles. Additionally, you will also help determine shark abundance to assess predation risk in different areas. Your participation will help researchers and the government creates plans that will protect the right habitats from development. 4 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017

7 RESEARCH AIMS By jumping in the water with these ancient creatures, you ll contribute to a long-term understanding of where the sea turtles go, both as populations and as individuals. The research focuses on the following objectives: RECORDING SEA TURTLE ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION: Scientists know that shallow waters serve as important feeding grounds for juvenile hawksbill and green sea turtles. But the characteristics of foraging grounds can vary greatly. You ll count the number of sea turtles present across multiple foraging sites, the idea being that the best foraging sites will abound with turtles. MAPPING HABITAT AND FOOD RESOURCE AVAILABILITY: To further investigate which factors influence where sea turtles choose to forage, you ll help map food resources, such as seagrass and sponges, found in foraging sites. When compared with sea turtle numbers from the first objective, this information will help researchers understand how green sea turtles and hawksbills choose where to dine. ASSESSING PREDATION RISK: A suitable habitat is not just rich in food supplies; it s also free from predators. Researchers hypothesize that areas crowded with predators have fewer sea turtles, and that, in turn, leads to less food resources consumed by them (Heithaus et al. 2007, Moran & Bjorndal 2005, Aragones et al. 2006). You ll help our scientists determine the variety and number of predators in turtle-foraging sites, and supply them with data to test their hypothesis. LONG-TERM MONITORING: Turtles travel throughout their lifetime. By tagging and monitoring their movements, scientists can determine what (and where) turtles eat while they grow (Bjorndal & Bolten 2000, Kubis et al. 2009). Researchers keep this account by periodically recapturing tagged turtles to collect tissue samples for chemical analysis. The analysis reveals what the turtle s diet consists of and that information is used to assess which foraging sites the animal has visited. You will help scientists capture, tag, and release tagged turtles to help them achieve their long-term monitoring objective. DETERMINING FINE-SCALE MOVEMENTS: This objective involves tracking individual sea turtles over the short term to understand their daily movements and activities. By using tags that transmit the turtle s location, scientists can study the habits of individual turtles. As human activities increasingly shape their world, it s vital to understand movement patterns and trends of individual turtles to help mitigate disruptions to their behavior. TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

8 HOW YOU WILL HELP You ll get to work on research tasks that support all of these objectives, both in and out of the water. TURTLE ABUNDANCE SURVEYS: From a boat, you and your teammates will spot turtles and record their locations via Global Positioning System (GPS). The designated note-taker (a revolving role) will tally the turtle counts, keep track of time, and record environmental data like cloud cover and wind speed. HABITAT SURVEYS: You ll snorkel through sites where turtles feed to collect seafloor habitat data (e.g., percentage cover of seagrass, algae, sand, etc.) and determine physical characteristics such as depth, temperature, dissolved oxygen content, and mangrove root density. You ll also collect plant tissue samples for chemical analysis and use GPS to identify locations of various sea floor characteristics. Oftentimes this task is performed at low tide, so volunteers should expect to snorkel/stand in the water in order to collect data. If you don t want to snorkel, you can still help out with boat-based tasks such as data recording, measuring water depth, and handling the GPS instrument. TAGGING SEA TURTLES: You ll have the chance to try two techniques for capturing and tagging turtles. The first involves setting up a long seine net at the mouth of a tidal creek. Some volunteers will walk the creek in formation called a scare line to move turtles toward the net. When a turtle is caught, you ll help the scientists measure and weigh it, tag it, and finally release it back into the water (for your safety and the accuracy of the data, you ll only observe and record and not actively handle the turtle as scientists take tissue samples and measure turtle length). The second technique gets you up close with turtles in the water. It s also more strenuous, and is optional. From a boat driven by a project staff member, you ll help look for sea turtles that surface from the water. When one is spotted, the boat will follow it until it tires out and slows down. Then, you or a teammate will enter the water and snorkel above the tired turtle until it comes up for air, at which point you ll grab it under the two front flippers. The boat will pick up the swimmer and the turtle, and the team will take tissue samples and measure the turtle s length and weight. BRUV WORK: From a boat, you ll help bait, deploy, and retrieve Baited Remote Underwater Video units (BRUVs) essentially underwater video cameras that record the animals that swim into range. You ll then help download the videos and analyze them to help estimate predator abundance, such as sharks, in the areas the BRUVs were deployed. CAPTURE-BASED SURVEYS: From a boat, you will help deploy baited survey lines to capture sharks. You will help the research team safely handle any captured animals and gather data on their species and size as well as tissue samples. ACOUSTIC TELEMETRY: You ll help deploy acoustic transmitter tags and acoustic hydrophones either from a boat or while snorkeling. And those who have experience skin diving (diving while holding one s breath instead of with a breathing apparatus), or want to learn how, may also help collect the hydrophones from the seafloor in shallow parts of the ocean. The data from these units will help us understand individual sea turtle movements within their foraging grounds and their habitat preferences. DATA MANAGEMENT: You ll also help with one of the pivotal steps in any scientific research: entering and analyzing data. In the evenings, or during unfavorable weather, you ll transfer notes from the field into a database and help analyze BRUV videos. As human development continues to shape the natural world that turtles thrive in, it s critical to observe and understand their movements so that we can best protect the places they need most. Your participation in this expedition will provide a valuable contribution to this effort. 6 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2016

9 DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD PLANS FOR YOUR TEAM You ll work under the leadership of the Earthwatch scientists and other experienced staff members, who will oversee data collection during surveys. You ll spend your days traveling to various field sites around South Eleuthera and conducting sea turtle and habitat surveys from boats and, optionally, from the water. In the evenings, you ll assist with video analysis, shark species identification, and data entry. Most lunches will be in the field and a few will be at CEI, but all dinners will be held back on campus. Participants will have time to rest and freshen up before dinner. After evening meetings, you may have the opportunity to hear about other research at CEI from visiting or resident scientists. You could also choose to socialize with fellow teammates or retire early to reenergize for the next day. Volunteers will have some time off to explore the surrounding local area, either by bike or on foot, as well as visit local settlements during the expedition. The team will have dinner at a local restaurant at least once. During the recreational day all participants will go by vehicle to various attractions along the island, including easily accessible caves, historical buildings, a nature preserve, and craft shops. Smoking and alcohol consumption are not permitted on teen expeditions. EARTHWATCH RECREATIONAL TIME POLICY Earthwatch will accompany teen participants from the rendezvous to the end of the expedition. If there is a recreational day during the expedition, the project staff and/or Teen Team facilitator will supervise a planned team activity or a small choice of supervised recreational activities that have been vetted and comply with Earthwatch standards. You will also have the option of remaining at the project accommodations to rest, provided supervision is possible. ITINERARY Weather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. DAY 1 Arrival in the late afternoon, dinner and then campus and project orientation. DAYS 2 Introduction to training and swim test, species identification and methodologies training. DAYS 3 8 Data collection, fieldwork in mangrove creeks including habitat surveys, tagging turtles, baited video surveys and data entry. During this time, participants will continually review training on species identification and survey methodologies. Earthwatch scientists will hold talks on other aspects of marine biology, or other visiting scientists at CEI may talk about their research. One full day or half-day will be reserved for recreational time to visit other parts of the island. DAY 9 Early morning departure for the airport. TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

10 ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD ABOUT YOUR HOME IN THE FIELD SLEEPING You ll stay at Cape Eleuthera Institute in single-sex, dormitorystyle rooms, each housing no more than ten people. Every room contains bunk beds and basic shelving, electric ceiling fans, lights, and 110-volt outlets (you are welcome to bring electronic equipment). Pillows will be provided, but you need to bring your own your bedding (sheets, blankets, pillow cases, or sleeping bags) and towels. BATHROOMS Each dorm has a communal toilet and washing area with multiple showers and sinks. Solar hot water heaters provide hot water, and we actively encourage water conservation. ELECTRICITY As mentioned above, each dormitory contains electric ceiling fans, lights, and 110-volt outlets. You are welcome to bring electronic equipment. PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS Internet access is not available for teens however chaperones will have access. Telephone and fax services are available, though access may be limited by the large number of people using them. All participants will call home upon arrival. Emergency communications will be prioritized. Mobile phone coverage varies in The Bahamas, but may be possible (while expensive) for some networks. You are free to bring your own cellphone. Earthwatch encourages volunteers to minimize outgoing calls and immerse themselves in the experience; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages only. Emergency communications will be prioritized. VOLUNTEER CONTACT INFO PHONE: +1 (242) FAX: +1 (954) WEBSITE: ceibahamas.org info@ceibahamas.org 8 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017

11 FACILITIES AND AMENITIES The Island School adjacent to CEI has a library, and is the location of the dining room that will be used for all meals. The closest settlement is Deep Creek, which has a restaurant. A short van journey is required to reach Deep Creek. There is a marina within walking distance of CEI (1 mile) where there is a shop with basic supplies, snacks, and drinks, although it s not always open. DISTANCE TO THE FIELD SITE The field sites are close to CEI. It will typically take less than 45 minutes by boat or van to mangrove creek sites. FOOD AND WATER Meals will be served buffet style in a central dining area, which is shared by all volunteers, staff, students, and researchers. Three meals a day will be prepared by local cooks. All guests help with basic kitchen cleaning duties on a rotating basis (once every few days). Snacks can be purchased from a store at the nearby marina. Types of food you might find in the field (please be flexible): TYPICAL MEALS BREAKFAST Cereal, yogurt, toast, bagels, eggs, grits, seasonal fruits, fruit juice. LUNCH AND DINNER SNACKS BEVERAGES WATER A mix of traditional Caribbean food (e.g., rice and beans accompanying meat or poultry dishes), fresh salads, and American food (e.g., pasta, soup, hamburgers). Packed lunches are sandwiches, fruit, gorp and cassava chips. Please purchase snacks before the expedition. There s a shop at the nearby marina for any midday candy, snack, or ice cream urges. Juice, water, tea, and coffee may be available during mealtimes. Always available from taps. Please bring refillable water bottles for personal use. SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms. TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

12 PROJECT CONDITIONS THE FIELD ENVIRONMENT GENERAL CONDITIONS THE INFORMATION THAT FOLLOWS IS AS ACCURATE AS POSSIBLE, BUT PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT CONDITIONS MAY CHANGE. The Bahamas has a tropical maritime climate, which makes for generally year-round good weather. There are two seasons: summer (May October) and winter (November April). In the summer, days tend to get hot and muggy, but in the winters days are somewhat more dry and cooler. The hurricane season spans from the end of June through the end of November. Mosquitoes and sand flies are present on Eleuthera, so bring repellent or long clothes for protection. GENERAL CONDITIONS HUMIDITY: Average 65% year round SUMMER TEMPERATURE RANGE: 27 C (80 F) to 32 C (90 F) WINTER TEMPERATURE RANGE: 18 C (64 F) to 24 C (75 F) RAINFALL: Brief summer showers May October BOATING CONDITIONS We ll use a basic skiff without a canopy or head (bathroom). Bathroom breaks will be taken in the water. Water conditions should be relatively benign, since we work in sheltered and shallow sites. You must wear a life jacket on the boat. ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: All participants must be able to: Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion. Wear all protective equipment recommended or required by industry standards. Learn to make and record observations of turtle species, behaviors, and habitats. Be comfortable snorkeling in open water (two to three hours a day) where they are unable to stand on the bottom, and be comfortable using snorkeling gear (mask, fins, snorkel). Enter and exit the water from small boats. Work on or from a boat for about three to six hours per day with limited break options (e.g., no bathroom on the boat, except for the ocean). Maintain a seated, upright position within boat during transit, which can sometimes be bumpy. This can be uncomfortable for individuals with back problems. Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather. Endure tropical (hot and humid) work conditions. WATER CONDITIONS TYPICAL WATER TEMPERATURE: 20 C (68 F) in winter, 24 C (75 F) in spring, 28 C (82 F) in summer TYPICAL WATER VISIBILITY: 10 m (33 ft.) to 25 m (82 ft.) TYPICAL MAX. WATER DEPTH IN AREA: 2 m (7 ft.) to 4 m (13 ft.) SITE DIVING TYPE: coastal tidal creeks ANTICIPATED DEPTH OF SNORKELING: 1 m (3 ft.) to 4 m (13 ft.) ANTICIPATED NUMBER OF SNORKELS PER DAY: 0 2 SNORKEL ACTIVITIES WILL BE INITIATED FROM: boats TIMING OF SNORKELING ACTIVITIES: day EGRESS INTO WATER: over edge of boat 10 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2016

13 POTENTIAL HAZARDS TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS HAZARD TYPE Transportation Terrain Animals Climate/ Weather Working on a Boat Personal Security Swimming Snorkeling Distance from Medical Care ASSOCIATED RISKS AND PRECAUTIONS Traffic accidents and injuries are always a hazard of road transport. Vans travel no faster than 35 mph on public roads. Every passenger will have a seat and must wear seatbelts at all times. Volunteers will not drive; only CEI staff will operate vans and boats. The project involves some walking on rough terrain; risks include sprains, strains, or breaks due to falling or missteps. It also involves crossing or walking along mangrove creeks, potentially with fast-moving water. Project staff will highlight risks on site and curtail activities they judge too risky. Mosquitoes and sand flies are present on Eleuthera, and repellent or long-sleeved shirts and pants can help protect from stings and bites. Fire coral, sea urchins, lionfish, jellyfish or jellies, and biting or territorial animals may be present in the water. All dangerous creatures will be introduced during the training period. Hurricane season starts in June, but most hurricane activity occurs in late August and September. Should a hurricane watch be issued for the Bahamas, the expedition will end and team members will evacuate to Miami, Florida. Project staff will not wait for a hurricane warning to evacuate. Because of the difficulties associated with leaving an island after a storm, staff will take the most conservative approach to ensure that volunteers don t experience undue stress or danger. Dehydration and sunburn are possible. You ll be briefed on proper clothing, sunscreen use, and fluid intake. Project staff sets an example and monitor participants for symptoms of exposure or dehydration. Take particular care when working during the hottest periods of the day. Because of the high humidity, those who use a hearing aid may find that it doesn t work properly and may wish to purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier. Boats will have appropriate safety equipment, including a personal flotation device (PFD) for each passenger. You must wear PFDs while boats are moving. Staff will brief the team on boating risks and precautions. You will be warned about wet deck surfaces and the risk of sprains, strains, or breaks from falling on the boat. Robbery is a risk outside of the project site, for example, in Nassau before and after the expedition. Take taxis instead of walking and always be aware of your surroundings. When at the project site, place valuables stored away and out of sight. Project staff will offer a locked office for any expensive personal belongings for the duration of your team. Swimming is central to the research you ll conduct and, possibly, during recreational time. Typical water- related risks will be present. A certified lifeguard will not be available at all times, but all staff members have boat and dive safety training. Volunteers may not swim alone. Snorkeling has inherent risks, e.g., the effects of environmental conditions like nitrogen (for those who ve recently scuba dived), barotrauma, boat traffic, marine life, and risks specific to one s own physical history. When snorkeling, properly control your breathing to reduce the risk of hyperventilation and blackout. You must bring and maintain your own mask, snorkel, fins, booties, and exposure protection. Snorkel vests can be provided for those who prefer them or are required to use them. You must ensure that all gear is in good working order and that you are trained in appropriate responses if a failure occurs while in the water. Optional night snorkeling may happen, only under the direct supervision of staff. We will do a swim assessment at beginning of each team and assign tasks accordingly. The Earthwatch scientist or support staff will be present in the water at all times with you. The buddy system is always used. Swimming and snorkeling will only happen in calm seas. No one goes in staff or volunteers when an Earthwatch scientist determines that conditions are unsafe. The nearest medical clinic is a 40-minute drive from the field station. Air evacuation is required to reach the nearest fully equipped hospital, in Nassau, and it can take up to four hours to arrange transport and reach the hospital. If you have a chronic condition, which could require immediate medical care (e.g., heart conditions, kidney problems, severe asthma), please discuss your participation with your physician. TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

14 SAFETY HEALTH INFORMATION Disease Traveler s diarrhea affects many international travelers. Diseases found in the Bahamas may include malaria, dengue fever, leptospirosis, and histoplasmosis. Please see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov) or the World Health Organization (who.int/) websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them. Zika, a mosquito borne disease, is now present in the Bahamas. In addition to wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, Earthwatch suggests bringing a mosquito net for additional protection to cover your bed at night. Permethrin is also recommended You can decrease your risk of most diseases above by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only bottled or filtered water when appropriate. If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region. EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS CEI has , phone, and fax capabilities that are available to project staff and volunteers. Mail is slow to arrive at Eleuthera, but is sent out several times per month. CEI has standard protocols for emergencies (medical, approaching hurricane, etc.). The project will use CEI communication equipment where appropriate (e.g., VHF radios on boats). Mobile phones also work on much of the island. PHYSICIAN, NURSE, OR EMT ON STAFF: Project staff members are not medical professionals. However, CEI has a resident medical and risk management director and wilderness emergency medical technician. The campus also has an on-site medical room stocked with non-prescription medication and medical equipment for minor ailments, wounds, or injuries. STAFF CERTIFIED IN SAFETY TRAINING: CPR: Annabelle Brooks FIRST AID: Annabelle Brooks WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER: Annabelle Brooks WATER SAFETY: Annabelle Brooks (boat driving and seamanship certification, scuba instructor, rescue diving) NEAREST MEDICAL CARE (40 MINUTES BY LAND) ROCK SOUND CLINIC Rock Sound PHONE: +1 (242) DIRECT TO DOCTOR: +1 (242) For emergency assistance in the field, please contact Earthwatch's 24-hour emergency hotline number on the last page of this briefing. Earthwatch is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; someone is always on call to respond to messages that come into our live answering service. IMMUNIZATIONS Please be sure your routine immunizations are up-to-date (for example: diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella and varicella). Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and the following are recommendations only. Visit the Healix Travel Oracle website through the Travel Assistance and Advice page in your Earthwatch portal, cdc.gov or who.int for guidance on immunizations. PROJECT VACCINATIONS REQUIRED: If traveling from countries or region where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination. You may need to present this certificate when you arrive in country. RECOMMENDED FOR HEALTH REASONS: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B 12 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2016

15 TRAVEL TIPS SUGGESTIONS FOR THE ROAD YOUR DESTINATION LANGUAGE: English TIME ZONE: GMT/UTC -5 (U.S. Eastern Standard Time). CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Bahamas are culturally similar to conservative areas of the U.S. Please dress accordingly: e.g., no swimsuits in the dining area, no sleeveless shirts on men. ELECTRICITY: The U.S. standard voltage used for small appliances, hair dryers, electronic equipment, etc. is 120 volts, 60Hz, supplied through type A or B sockets. TELEPHONE DIALING CODES: The Bahamas is part of the North American Numbering Plan, so has the same dialing codes as the United States and Canada. When calling The Bahamas from another country, dial the country s international dialing code, followed by (1) and the number. When calling within The Bahamas, omit the (1) and dial the number. When calling another country from The Bahamas, dial (011), followed by the other country s country code and the number. Check with your cell phone provider to obtain any carrier-specific dialing codes you may need; many providers have dialing procedures that may differ in whole or in part from these directions. MONEY MATTERS LOCAL CURRENCY: The US Dollar (USD) is legal tender in The Bahamas. PERSONAL FUNDS: Please bring all the funds you need in cash Eleuthera has few ATMs. Less than $200 should be required to cover any snacks and drinks. PASSPORTS AND VISAS Passport and visa requirements are subject to change. Check with your travel advisor, embassy or consulate in your home country for requirements specific to your circumstances. Generally, passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a return ticket is required. CITIZENSHIP PASSPORT REQUIRED? VISA REQUIRED? United States Yes No United Kingdom Yes No Europe Yes No Australia Yes No Japan Yes No If a visa is required, participants should apply for a TOURIST visa. Please note that obtaining a visa can take weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process. CONTACT INFORMATION You may be required to list the following contact information on your visa application and immigration form, or if your luggage does not make it to baggage claim at your destination: ANNABELLE BROOKS Cape Eleuthera Institute PO Box EL Rock Sound Eleuthera, The Bahamas +1 (242) LOST AND DELAYED LUGGAGE: If your luggage goes astray, please instruct the airline to deliver your bags to Rock Sound Airport and to alert you of the delivery at Cape Eleuthera Institute, +1 (242) CEI staff will arrange for pick-up from the airport as soon as possible. TRANSFERRING LUGGAGE: If you will be taking an international flight that has one or more connections within the country of your destination, you must collect any checked bags at the airport where you first arrive in the destination country. After proceeding through customs, you will have to recheck your luggage before flying on to your final destination. TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

16 EXPEDITION PACKING LIST WHAT TO BRING EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST GENERAL q This expedition briefing q Your travel plans, rendezvous details, and Earthwatch s emergency contact information q Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and credit cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents q Passport and/or visa (if necessary) q Certification of vaccination (if necessary) q Documentation for travel by minors (if necessary) CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR FIELDWORK q Earthwatch T-shirt q Lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts to keep bugs and sun off q Quick-drying long pants q Wide-brimmed sun hat q Sunglasses (polarized preferable) q Rash guard q Athletic-style swimsuit (string bikinis can be worn during free time but must be covered with rash guard/t-shirt when on the waterfront) q Swim leggings to limit sun exposure on boats q Hard-soled sandals or shoes that can be worn in the water (for walking in rocky and muddy tidal creeks) q Beach shoes, like flip flops q Rain jacket CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR LEISURE q At least one set of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition FIELD SUPPLIES q Small daypack q Two one-liter water bottles q High-SPF sunscreen q Insect repellent spray (baby oil or Skin-So-Soft works well for no-see-um and sandflies) q Mask, snorkel fins that don t require booties, snorkel *NOTE: If you don t own snorkel gear, you can borrow these items on site. q Pen or pencil and notepad BEDDING AND BATHING q Mosquito net (that can be hung above a bed) NOTE: Pillows are provided by the accommodations. q Twin bottom and top sheet q Pillow case q Two towels (one for the field and one for showering) PERSONAL SUPPLIES q Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged) q Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands while in the field) q Personal first aid kit (e.g., anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers, etc.) and medications q Spending money q Headlamp with extra batteries and extra bulb OPTIONAL ITEMS q Comfortable shoes to change into after conducting field work q Travel guide q Blanket or sleeping bag q Camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery q Hardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of the expedition q Dry bag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water q Books, games, art supplies, etc. for free time q Earplugs for light sleepers NOTE: Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. If traveling by air and checking your luggage, we advise you to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. 14 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017

17 PROJECT STAFF YOUR RESOURCES IN THE FIELD ANNABELLE BROOKS has over ten years of marine ecology experience conducted in The Bahamas and in the Indian Ocean. Following deployment as a fisheries observer in the north Atlantic, she completed her master s degree in marine and fisheries science at the University of Aberdeen (UK), and her thesis focused on coral reef fish ecology in The Bahamas. Based at CEI since 2007, Annabelle is the head of the research department, which includes studies on invasive lionfish, sharks, sea turtles, queen conch, and bonefish, so she has vast knowledge of the project site and great experience working with students from both the United States and the Bahamas. Schedule: all teams. DR. KAREN BJORNDAL is a distinguished professor in the department of biology and director of the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research at the University of Florida. She has two research fields: nutritional ecology with an emphasis on vertebrate herbivores and the biology of sea turtles. Her sea turtle research interests are very broad, but studies are integrated into two themes: the past and present roles of sea turtles in marine ecosystems and connectivity of sea turtle populations in the Atlantic. She is particularly interested in studies of foraging ecology, growth, and demography. Schedule: To be Determined. MEAGAN GARY is a Senior Research Assistant for the Cape Eleuthera Institute. She recently completed her master s degree in biology at Florida Atlantic University focusing on sea turtle home range and habitat use in Eleuthera. Before her masters, she assisted with various research projects around the world including studying shark populations in The Bahamas, dolphin behavior and bioacoustics in Namibia, and shark bycatch in Ecuador. Meagan has been coming to CEI since 2010 and has significant experience working with students and conducting field work. Schedule: all teams. DR. ALAN BOLTEN is a member of the graduate faculty in the Department of Biology and associate director of the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research at the University of Florida. His research focuses on the biology of the juvenile oceanic stages of sea turtles, on their migratory patterns and demography, and on the role sea turtles play in marine ecosystems. Schedule: To be Determined. EARTHWATCH TEEN FACILITATORS will be with your team from the time you step off the plane for the rendezvous to the end of the expedition. If you have any questions or problems during your expedition, such as issues with another volunteer, homesickness, or an emergency at home, please talk to your facilitators. Also follow the advice and expectations set by your facilitators regarding safety and personal conduct. All team facilitators have experience teaching and leading groups of teenagers and are familiar with the team dynamics necessary to make each expedition a success. Remember, your facilitators are there for you! NOTE: Staff schedules are subject to change. TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

18 RECOMMENDED READING YOUR RESOURCES AT HOME RESOURCES ARTICLES Hammann, M. et al Global research priorities for sea turtles: informing management and conservation in the 21st century. EndangSpecRes 11: seaturtle. org/library/?v=4924 Heithaus MR, Alcoverro T, Arthur R, Burkholder DA, Coates KA, Christianen MJA, Kelkar N, Manuel SA, Wirsing AJ, Kenworthy WJ and Fourqurean JW (2014) Seagrasses in the age of sea turtle conservation and shark overfishing. Front. Mar. Sci. 1:28. doi: / fmars Available at: org/article/ /fmars /full BOOKS Witherington, Blair, Wintherington, Dawn. Our Sea Turtles: A Practical Guide for the Atlantic and Gulf, from Canada to Mexico. Wyneken, Jeanette; Kenneth J. Lohmann, John A. Musick, Biology of Sea Turtles, Volume 3. Carr, Archie. The Sea Turtle: So Excellent a Fish Stafford-Deitsch, Jeremy. Sharks of Florida, the Bahamas, the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico (In-depth divers guide) FIELD GUIDES Humann, Paul. Reef Coral Identification: Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas FILMS Turtle: The Incredible Journey. Bigwave Productions PROJECT-RELATED WEBSITE PROJECT RELATED SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/pages/tracking-sea-turtles- in-the- Bahamas/ EARTHWATCH SOCIAL MEDIA FACEBOOK: facebook.com/earthwatch TWITTER: twitter.com/earthwatch_org INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/earthwatch BLOG: earthwatchunlocked.wordpress.com YOUTUBE: youtube.com/earthwatchinstitute 16 TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017

19 LITERATURE CITED LITERATURE Aragones LV, Lawler IR, Foley WJ, Marsh H Dugong grazing and turtle cropping: grazing optimization in tropical seagrass systems? Oecologia. 149: Bjorndal KA, Bolten AB, Chaloupka MY Green turtle somatic growth model: evidence for density dependence. Ecological Applications 10: Bjorndal KA, Bolten AB Hawksbill sea turtles in seagrass pastures: success in a peripheral habitat. Marine Biology. 157: Hamann M, Godfrey MH, Seminoff JA, Arthur K, Barata PCR, Bjorndal KA, Bolten AB, Broderick AC, Campbell LM, Carreras C, Casale P, Chaloupka M, Chan SKF, Coyne MS, Crowder LB, Diez CE, Dutton PH, Epperly SP, FitzSimmons NN, Formia A, Girondot M, Hays GC, Cheng IJ, Kaska Y, Lewison R, Mortimer JA, Nichols WJ, Reina RD, Shanker K, Spotila JR, Tomás J, Wallace BP, Work TM, Zbinden J, Godley BJ Global research priorities for sea turtles: informing management and conservation in the 21st century. Endangered Species Research. 11: Heithaus MR, Frid A, Wirsing AJ, Dill LM, Fourqurean JW, Burkholder D, Thomson J, Bejder OL State-dependent risk-taking by green sea turtles mediates top-down effects of tiger shark intimidation in a marine ecosystem. Journal of Animal Ecology. 76(5) Kubis S, Chaloupka M, Ehrhart L, Bresette M Growth rates of juvenile green turtles Chelonia mydas from three ecologically distinct foraging habitats along the east central coast of Florida, USA. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 389: Moran KL, Bjorndal KA Simulated green turtle grazing affects structure and productivity of seagrass pastures. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 305: Wallace BP, DiMatteo AD, Bolten AB, Chaloupka MY, Hutchinson BJ, Abreu-Grobois A, Mortimer JA, Seminoff JA, Amorocho D, Bjorndal KA, Bourjea J, Bowen BW, Briseno Duenas R, Casale P, Choudhury BC, Costa A, Dutton PH, Fallabrino A, Finkbeiner EM, Girard A, Girondot M, Hamann M, Hurley BJ, Lopez-Mendilaharsu M, Marcovaldi MA, Musick JA, Nel R, Pilcher NJ, Troeng S, Witherington B, Mast RB Global Conservation Priorities for Marine Turtles. PLoS ONE 6(9): e doi: /journal.pone TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS

20 EMERGENCY NUMBERS AROUND-THE-CLOCK SUPPORT EARTHWATCH S 24-HOUR EMERGENCY HOTLINE Call Earthwatch s 24-hour on-call duty officer in the U.S.: +1 (978) (800) (toll-free for calls placed from within the U.S.) After business hours, leave a message with our live answering service. State that you have an emergency and give the name of your expedition, your name, the location from which you are calling, and if possible, a phone number where you can be reached. An Earthwatch staff member will respond to your call within one hour. TRAVEL ASSISTANCE PROVIDER: HEALIX INTERNATIONAL (collect calls and reverse charges accepted) U.S. TOLL FREE: U.K. FREE PHONE: earthwatch@healix.com You may contact Healix International at any time. They can assist in the event of a medicalor evacuation emergency or for routine medical and travel advice, such as advice on visas and vaccine requirements. FOR VOLUNTEERS BOOKED THROUGH THE EARTHWATCH AUSTRALIA OFFICE: Earthwatch Australia 24-Hour Emergency Helpline TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2016

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23 MESSAGE FROM EARTHWATCH DEAR EARTHWATCHER, Thank you for joining this expedition! We greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to hands-on environmental science and conservation. It is volunteers like you who fuel our mission and inspire our work. While at Earthwatch, I ve had the opportunity to field on a few expeditions, most recently in Kenya with one of my daughters. Each expedition has touched me deeply, and made me proud to be able to roll up my sleeves alongside my fellow volunteers and contribute to such meaningful work. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change. And while you re out in the field working toward that change, we are committed to caring for your safety. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we ve been providing volunteer field experiences with careful risk management and diligent planning for nearly 45 years. You re in good hands. If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, we encourage you to contact your Earthwatch office. Thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition! Sincerely, Scott Kania President and CEO, Earthwatch

24 Earthwatch U.S. 114 Western Ave. Boston, MA United States earthwatch.org Phone: Toll-Free: Fax: Earthwatch Europe Mayfield House 256 Banbury Rd. Oxford, OX2 7DE United Kingdom earthwatch.org Phone: Fax: Earthwatch Australia 126 Bank St. South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia earthwatch.org Phone: Fax: Earthwatch Japan Food Science Bldg. 4F The University of Tokyo 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo , Japan earthwatch.org Phone: Fax: