EARTHWATCH 2017
TRACKING SEA TURTLES
IN THE BAHAMAS
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 best 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 dataset 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 lives 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
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EARTHWATCHINSTITUTE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION............................... 2
TRIP PLANNER...............................................3
THE RESEARCH............................................. 4
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD............................... 7
ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD....................... 8
PROJECT CONDITIONS.................................. 10
SAFETY........................................................ 12
TRAVEL TIPS................................................ 13
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST................ 14
PROJECT STAFF........................................... 15
RECOMMENDED READING............................ 16
LITERATURE CITED....................................... 17
EMERGENCY NUMBERS................................ 18
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
1
GENERAL INFORMATION
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS
EARTHWATCH SCIENTISTS
EXPEDITION DATES
Annabelle Brooks, Dr. Karen Bjorndal, Dr. Alan Bolten
Team 1: Feb. 4–Feb.12, 2017
Team 2: Mar. 30–Apr. 7, 2017
Team 4* TEEN: Jun. 21–Jun 29, 2017
Team 5* TEEN: Jul. 29–Aug. 06, 2017
Team 6: Aug. 12–Aug. 20, 2017
Team 7: Sept. 2–Sept. 10, 2017
Team 8: Sept. 23–Oct. 1, 2017
RESEARCH SITE
Cape Eleuthera Institute, Eleuthera Island, The Bahamas
Complete travel information is not
available in this version of the briefing.
Please contact Earthwatch
with any questions.
2
Team 9: Oct. 28–Nov. 5, 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.
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
TRIP PLANNER
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS
TRIP PLANNER
IMMEDIATELY
60 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION
ake sure you understand and agree to Earthwatch’s
qM
Terms and Conditions and the Participant Code of
Conduct.
ake sure you have all the necessary vaccinations for
qM
your project site.
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).
eview the Packing Checklist to make sure you have all
qR
the clothing, personal supplies and equipment needed.
30 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION
eave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with
qL
a relative or friend.
eave copies of your passport, visa, and airline tickets
qL
with a relative or friend.
q If traveling internationally, make sure your passport
is current and, if necessary, obtain a visa for your
destination country.
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 2017
3
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.
4
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 predator 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.
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
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.
• M APPING 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.
• A SSESSING 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 turtleforaging sites, and supply them with data to test their
hypothesis.
•L
ONG-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.
•D
ETERMINING 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 2017
5
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. 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. Note,
boats often can’t reach these sites, so volunteers should be
willing to snorkel/stand in water during this activity.
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 predators. You will help the
research team safely handle any captured animals and gather
data on their species and size as well as tissue samples.
6
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.
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
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 is not permitted anywhere on the Cape Eleuthera
Institute campus. Alcohol consumption is only permitted in
the evenings during recreational time or during group meals
off campus.
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
Campus tour, 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 2017
7
ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD
ABOUT YOUR HOME IN THE FIELD
SLEEPING
PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS
You’ll stay at Cape Eleuthera Institute in single-sex, dormitorystyle rooms, each housing no more than six 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.
CEI has phone and fax facilities that may be used by volunteers by
arrangement with CEI staff. Wireless internet may be available
(depending on group size), and those who don’t bring computers
may be able to use one at the site. Mobile phone coverage varies
in The Bahamas, but may be possible (while expensive) for some
networks. You are free to bring your own cellphone.
BATHROOMS
Each room has a communal toilet and washing area and multiple
showers are available on each dorm floor in a separate part of
the building. 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.
8
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) 334-8552
FAX: +1 (954) 337-3799
WEBSITE: ceibahamas.org
EMAIL: [email protected]
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
FACILITIES AND AMENITIES
FOOD AND WATER
The Island School adjacent to CEI has a library, and is the
location of the dining room that will be used for all meals.
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.
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 (one 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.
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
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, cassava chips.
SNACKS
Please purchase snacks before the
expedition. There’s a shop at the nearby
marina for any midday candy, snack, or ice
cream urges.
BEVERAGES
Juice, water, tea, and coffee may be available
during mealtimes.
WATER
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 2017
9
PROJECT CONDITIONS
THE FIELD ENVIRONMENT
GENERAL CONDITIONS
ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
THE INFORMATION THAT FOLLOWS IS AS ACCURATE AS
POSSIBLE, BUT PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT CONDITIONS
MAY CHANGE.
All participants must be able to:
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.
• Wear all protective equipment recommended or required
by industry standards.
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.
• Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently
or with the assistance of a companion.
• 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).
• The ability to swim, while not mandatory, is important for
safety reasons as a large portion of the project is conducted
from a boat.
• Enter and exit the water from small boats, potentially without
a ladder.
• 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
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TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
POTENTIAL HAZARDS
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS
HAZARD TYPE
ASSOCIATED RISKS AND PRECAUTIONS
Transportation
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.
Terrain
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.
Animals
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.
Climate/ Weather
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.
Political, Social
and Cultural
Project staff will advise you on local culture. They will also enforce appropriate clothing and footwear for
particular situations, e.g., in settlements.
Project Tasks/
Equipment
Staff will warn you about correct lifting techniques for heavy equipment.
Working on a Boat
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.
Personal Security
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.
Swimming
Swimming is central to the research you’ll conduct and, possibly, during recreational time. Typical water-related
risks are 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
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.
Distance from
Medical Care
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 2017
11
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
NEAREST MEDICAL CARE (40 MINUTES BY LAND)
CEI has email, 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.).
ROCK SOUND CLINIC
Rock Sound
PHONE: +1 (242) 334-2226
DIRECT TO DOCTOR: +1 (242) 334-2115
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)
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.
RECOMMENDED FOR HEALTH REASONS: Typhoid, Hepatitis
A, and Hepatitis B
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TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
TRAVEL TIPS
SUGGESTIONS FOR THE ROAD
YOUR DESTINATION
PASSPORTS AND VISAS
LANGUAGE: English
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.
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.
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:
CAPE ELEUTHERA INSTITUTE
PO Box EL-26029
Rock Sound
Eleuthera, The Bahamas
+1 (242) 334-8552
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) 334-8552. 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 2017
13
EXPEDITION PACKING LIST
WHAT TO BRING
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST
GENERAL
his expedition briefing
qT
q Y our travel plans, rendezvous details, and Earthwatch’s
emergency contact information
hotocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and credit
qP
cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies
should be packed separately from the original
documents
assport and/or visa (if necessary)
qP
C
q ertification of vaccination (if necessary)
BEDDING AND BATHING
osquito net (that can be hung above a bed)
qM
NOTE: Pillows are provided by the accommodations.
ocumentation for travel by minors (if necessary)
qD
win bottom and top sheet
qT
illow case
qP
wo towels (one for the field and one for showering)
qT
B
q lanket or sleeping bag during colder months
(February–April, October–November)
CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR FIELDWORK
PERSONAL SUPPLIES
arthwatch T-shirt
qE
ightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts to keep
qL
bugs and sun off
uick-drying long pants
qQ
W
q ide-brimmed sun hat
unglasses (polarized preferable)
qS
ash guard
qR
thletic-style swimsuit (string bikinis can be worn during
qA
free time or must be covered with rash guard/t-shirt
when on the waterfront)
wim-leggings to keep sun off legs when on boat
qS
ard-soled sandals or shoes that can be worn in the
qH
water (for walking in rocky and muddy tidal creeks)
each shoes, like flip flops
qB
ain jacket
qR
ersonal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos
qP
are encouraged)
ntibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands
qA
while in the field)
ersonal first aid kit (e.g., anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics,
qP
antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister
covers, etc.) and medications
pending money
qS
CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR LEISURE
t least one set of clothing to keep clean for end
qA
of expedition
weatshirt and jeans for colder months
qS
(February–April, October–November)
FIELD SUPPLIES
mall daypack
qS
wo one-liter water bottles
qT
H
q igh-SPF sunscreen
q Insect repellent spray Baby oil or Skin-So-Soft works
well for no-see-um and sandflies
14
ask, snorkel fins, snorkel
qM
en or pencil and notepad
qP
OPTIONAL ITEMS
ravel guide
qT
lanket or sleeping bag
qB
mm wetsuit for colder months (February–May,
q3
November)
amera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery
qC
ardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of
qH
the expedition
ry bag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect
qD
equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water
ooks, games, art supplies, etc. for free time
qB
arplugs for light sleepers
qE
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.
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
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.
NOTE: Staff schedules are subject to change.
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
15
RECOMMENDED READING
YOUR RESOURCES AT HOME
RESOURCES
ARTICLES
FIELD GUIDES
• H
ammann, M. et al. 2010. Global research priorities for
sea turtles: informing management and conservation in
the 21st century. EndangSpecRes 11:245-269 seaturtle.
org/library/?v=4924
• H
umann, Paul. Reef Coral Identification: Florida,
Caribbean, Bahamas
• H
eithaus 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: 10.3389/
fmars.2014.00028 Available at: http://journal.frontiersin.
org/article/10.3389/fmars.2014.00028/full
• Turtle: The Incredible Journey. Bigwave Productions.
BOOKS
• f acebook.com/pages/Tracking-Sea-Turtles- in-TheBahamas/545449625561866
• W
itherington, Blair, Wintherington, Dawn. Our Sea
Turtles: A Practical Guide for the Atlantic and Gulf,
from Canada to Mexico.
• W
yneken, Jeanette; Kenneth J. Lohmann, John A. Musick,
Biology of Sea Turtles, Volume 3.
16
FILMS
PROJECT-RELATED WEBSITE
• w ww.ceibahamas.org/research/sea-turtles
• http://blog.ceibahamas.org
PROJECT RELATED SOCIAL MEDIA
EARTHWATCH SOCIAL MEDIA
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/Earthwatch
TWITTER: twitter.com/earthwatch_org
• Carr, Archie. The Sea Turtle: So Excellent a Fish
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/earthwatch
• S
tafford-Deitsch, Jeremy. Sharks of Florida, the
Bahamas, the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico
(In-depth divers’ guide)
YOUTUBE: youtube.com/earthwatchinstitute
BLOG: earthwatchunlocked.wordpress.com
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
LITERATURE CITED
LITERATURE
• A ragones LV, Lawler IR, Foley WJ , Marsh H. 2006. Dugong grazing and turtle cropping: grazing optimization in tropical
seagrass systems? Oecologia. 149:635–647.
• Bjorndal KA, Bolten AB, Chaloupka MY. 2000. Green turtle somatic growth model: evidence for density dependence.
Ecological Applications 10:269-282.
• Bjorndal KA, Bolten AB. 2010. Hawksbill sea turtles in seagrass pastures: success in a peripheral habitat. Marine Biology.
157:135-145.
• 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. 2010. Global research priorities for sea turtles: informing
management and conservation in the 21st century. Endangered Species Research. 11: 245–269.
• Heithaus MR, Frid A, Wirsing AJ, Dill LM, Fourqurean JW, Burkholder D, Thomson J, Bejder OL. 2007. 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)837-844.
• Kubis S, Chaloupka M, Ehrhart L, Bresette M. 2009. 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.
389:257–269.
• Moran KL, Bjorndal KA. 2005. Simulated green turtle grazing affects structure and productivity of seagrass pastures.
Marine Ecology Progress Series. 305: 235–247.
• 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. 2011. Global Conservation Priorities for Marine Turtles. PLoS
ONE 6(9): e24510. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0024510.
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
17
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) 461.0081
+1 (800) 776.0188 (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
+44.20.3667.8991 (collect calls and reverse charges accepted)
U.S. TOLL FREE: +1.877.759.3917
U.K. FREE PHONE: 0.800.19.5180
E-MAIL: [email protected]
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
+61.0.3.8508.5537
18
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
19
20
TRACKING SEA TURTLES IN THE BAHAMAS 2017
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
Earthwatch U.S.
114 Western Ave.
Boston, MA 02134
United States
[email protected]
earthwatch.org
Phone: 1-978-461-0081
Toll-Free: 1-800-776-0188
Fax: 1-978-461-2332
Earthwatch Europe
Mayfield House
256 Banbury Rd.
Oxford, OX2 7DE
United Kingdom
Earthwatch Australia
126 Bank St.
South Melbourne,
VIC 3205
Australia
Earthwatch Japan
Food Science Bldg. 4F
The University of Tokyo
1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku
Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
[email protected]
earthwatch.org
[email protected]
earthwatch.org
[email protected]
earthwatch.org
Phone: 44-0-1865-318-838
Fax: 44-0-1865-311-383
Phone: 61-0-3-9016-7590
Fax: 61-0-3-9686-3652
Phone: 81-0-3-6686-0300
Fax: 81-0-3-6686-0477