AUSTRALIA
2008
Hawksbill
Turtles
of the
Great Barrier
Reef
Ian Bell
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
Earthwatch.
2008 EXPEDITION BRIEFING AND FORMS
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•
www.earthwatch.org
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i
North Queensland Regional Initiative
In the tropical north of eastern Australia, two of the world’s most diverse ecosystems exist side by side, the
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforests. A diverse flora, some of
which is largely unchanged since the times of the ancient continent of Gondwana, support an array of
unique and beautiful birds, mammals, reptiles and insects.
Welcome
Welcome to Earthwatch Institute’s regional initiative (RI) in the North Queensland region of
Australia! By assisting our dedicated local environmental scientists in learning more about the
multitude of organisms and processes that make up the natural ecosystems of the region, you
will be contributing toward the conservation of two World Heritage listed ecosystems, and
toward the accumulation of knowledge that will be transferred to countries, particularly in our
region, to assist in the conservation of vulnerable tropical ecosystems. Earthwatch Institute,
North Queensland RI Director Sue Jenkins, a group of dedicated Principal Investigators and our
many partner organizations join together to welcome you to enjoy the beauty and fascinating
variety of this region. Your work will be making a practical and very important contribution to its
future sustainability, and your enthusiasm and passion will be welcomed by the many local
people who are committed to conserving the unique heritage of this region.
Background
Earthwatch is creating partnerships with leading conservation agencies around the world to
expand our model of hands-on volunteer support for field science to help achieve local
conservation aims. Earthwatch pioneered this unique model for supporting field research and
education and is now intensifying this approach in response to international conservation
challenges. These partnerships gave birth to RIs – concentrations of complementary studies
within a defined eco-region, in association with local conservation, research and management
organizations. Our goal is to work together to reverse the loss of biodiversity, culture and
ecosystem function. By partnering our model with leading community, government and nongovernment organizations, we will cultivate rapid implementation of results and significantly
advance conservation priorities in the world’s most endangered environments. We believe that
by bringing volunteers to areas where multiple complementary research programs are occurring,
they can help us dramatically accelerate the conservation process. Your participation is crucial.
North Queensland
From the magnificent rainforest covered highlands to the coral encrusted edge of the continental
shelf, the tropical northeastern region of the ancient continent of Australia contains splendidly
diverse and largely unique flora and fauna.
In the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, millions of years of evolution have produced animals with
an array of shapes, colors, sizes, and lifestyles. These include over 400 coral species, 1,500 types of
fish, 4,000 types of mollusks and innumerable other organisms. The cays and continental islands
support a range of vegetation types and are utilized by over 200 species of birds. Island and
mainland beaches provide nesting sites for the turtles that graze the diverse algae of the reef, and
the coastal shallows support seagrass meadows that sustain ranging dugongs.
ii
Across the narrow coastal lowland, tropical beach vegetation merges into a variety of ecosystems
including paper bark forest, eucalypt forest, swampland and rainforest. Running parallel to the
coast, a rugged mountain range intercepts moisture from the sea to produce rainfall that allows
moist tropical rainforest to thrive on the slopes, peaks and inland tablelands. Within these
extensive forests thrives a living record of the ecological and evolutionary processes that created
the flora and fauna of the region over the last 415 million years, the last 50 million in isolation
from other landmasses. There are over 1,100 species of higher plants in the rainforests (710 of
which are Australian endemics) and these and other plants support the richest fauna in Australia.
Although the Wet Tropics area makes up only 0.1% of the land area of the continent, it contains
30% of the marsupial species, 58% of the bats, 29% of the frog species, 20% of reptile species and
62% of butterfly species. Around 70 vertebrate species are endemic to the region.
Although these areas are largely under legislative protection, human activities threaten the
integrity of the rainforest, reef and other ecosystems within the region, and this threat will be
exacerbated as population in the region increases from the current 190,000 to about 250,000 over
the next 10 years. For the reef, current threats include the impacts of silt and agricultural
fertilizers, agricultural run-off of heavy metals and pesticides, global climate change and related
increases in sea temperatures, and the activities of ships, tourists and fishers. The forests are
threatened by encroachment of non-native plants and animals (including feral pigs and
predatory domestic pets), biodiversity loss through processes associated with the creation of
extensive abrupt edges relative to core forest area, global warming, fire and the activities of
tourists. All have the potential to increase as the population of the region increases.
Partners in Conservation
Australia is fortunate to have a strong research community and a range of government
organizations committed to managing the integrity and sustainability of the region’s ecosystems.
The North Queensland RI is collaborating with these organizations, including the Wet Tropics
Management Authority, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Queensland Parks and
Wildlife Service, CSIRO, Rainforest Cooperative Research Centre and the Reef Cooperative
Research Centre. In addition we will work with local indigenous communities (some of whom
have legal rights to hunt some native animals for food), the wider community, non-government
conservation organizations and local government organizations to advance conservation in the
region.
Projects for 2008
Although the region has a stronger research and management foundation than many other places
in the world, the large size of the two World Heritage areas, the diversity of the organisms within
these ecosystems and the immense complexity of the web of processes that connect them means
that many important areas of research cannot be adequately addressed. This means that the data
needed to prescribe the best practices for managing all aspects of the natural and human
landscape to achieve sustainability is not necessarily available. One of the main reasons for this is
a shortage of hands and minds to undertake field research projects. You, as an Earthwatch
volunteer, are meeting this need and facilitating research projects that are vital to understanding
organisms and processes, and to ensuring that the rainforest and reef are better understood by
resource managers. These projects could not be undertaken without your support and assistance.
The two projects for 2008 are Climate Change in the Rainforest and Hawksbill Turtles of the Great
Barrier Reef.
iii
Climate Change in the Rainforest
Global climate change is the most serious threat facing Earth’s natural ecosystems and human
society. The planet is moving toward warmer conditions than it has experienced for thousands of
years, and this is potentially catastrophic for the faunal biodiversity of Australia’s tropical forests.
Current predictions of future temperature increases suggest that over 50% of the unique endemic
vertebrate species in this region may face extinction, and that the habitat range of the survivors
will be dramatically reduced. Preparing to conserve the rainforest animals in the face of this
process will require a deeper understanding of the current patterns of vertebrate biodiversity.
Earthwatch volunteers will measure the distribution and abundance of plants and animals at
varying altitudes as part of this world-first study.
Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef
Hawksbill turtles appear to be suffering a decline in numbers through hunting within the Pacific
region. Preliminary studies have shown that there are fewer turtles returning to breed at nesting
sites within the Great Barrier Reef. This is cause for major concern. To ascertain the actual state of
the population, Earthwatch volunteers will assist the experienced National Parks team with
examining nesting turtles and their offspring, and with counting and assessing the health and
maturity of foraging turtles on the reef.
iv
Dear Earthwatch Volunteer,
Welcome to the Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reefs Earthwatch Expedition, part of the
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services’ Hawksbill Turtle Research Program. Our research with
these critically endangered animals is conducted at one of the great natural wonders of the world
- the Great Barrier Reef. The areas we go to are some of the most pristine, remote and isolated
parts of the reef and we hope that you will get the most out of your research experience.
The program has been running for the past 17 years and has provided valuable insight into one
of the largest remaining hawksbill populations in the world. The information gathered so far has
been used to increase the level of protection where turtles nest and feed both regionally and
internationally.
The research also indicates that hawksbill nesting populations in this part of the world are
declining at about 3% per year. It is now vital to find out whether conservation strategies
implemented 20 years ago are working, and if the population is stable, if numbers are increasing,
or if the downward trend is continuing.
Your role is crucial in assisting us in various aspects of data collection. Whether you choose to be
involved in a nesting or a foraging survey you will have lots of hands-on participation, including
tagging and measuring turtles. Nesting teams will also be involved in other aspects, such as
counting and measuring eggs, while foraging teams will assist staff with catching turtles.
Like many research projects the work can become arduous, the weather can turn foul and the
turtles can be even more uncooperative than normal. However, by the end of the survey (usually
after the first shower on the boat on the way home), you will feel the satisfaction of having
played a vital role in piecing together the jigsaw puzzle of hawksbill turtle populations in the
Coral Sea.
Yours Sincerely,
Ian Bell
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
v
Taking Photographs of Sea Turtles
One of the most exciting parts of going on an expedition with Earthwatch Institute is the ability
to relive the experience through looking at and sharing your photos. For projects involving sea
turtles, special care is necessary to minimize the disturbance to the turtles during their nesting.
Bright lights not only disturb sea turtles, but can disorient them. For nesting females, they may
return to the ocean without nesting. For young hatchlings, they can become confused about the
direction they are supposed to travel. These worries have caused many governments to impose
very strict rules for light management. So, we thought it best to provide you with information
specific to your Earthwatch Expedition.
•
Flash photography on nesting beaches at night: Allowed after turtle has completed nesting.
•
Photography with appropriate high speed film and no flash: Allowed before and after nesting, but
not from directly in front of female to avoid disturbance.
•
How can volunteers get photos to use? The project staff will give you a CD/DVD of images to
take home (or it will be mailed later in the season). There are also many places in Cairns to
purchase wonderful printed materials.
•
Are volunteers required to obtain a photography permit? No, as long as the photos are not for
commercial use.
•
Photos for semi-professional or professional display: Photographing or videoing on the beach at
night for such uses requires a permit from the Queensland Government. Detailed
information must be supplied well in advance of going on the expedition. These are very
difficult to obtain, expensive, and designed for large film crews.
•
Flashlights/Headlamps: NOT allowed on the beach at night. You’ll still want to bring one for
non-beach use.
The above information applies to taking photos on the beaches at night only. You are free to take
photos during the day and of other project-related activities.
vi
Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef
Table of Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION...................................................................................................................... 1
THE EXPEDITION ..................................................................................................................................... 2
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 2
2. RESEARCH AREA ................................................................................................................................... 3
3. PROJECT STAFF ...................................................................................................................................... 4
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD..................................................................................................................... 5
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS ........................................................................................... 5
TEAM ITINERARY ................................................................................................................................... 6
DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS ............................................................................................................... 7
ACCOMMODATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 8
FOOD ................................................................................................................................................... 10
TRAVEL PLANNING ............................................................................................................................... 11
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE ........................................................................................................................... 11
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS ........................................................................................................................ 15
11. HEALTH INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................... 19
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................... 20
13. RECOMMENDED READING.................................................................................................................. 21
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD .............................................................................................................. 22
15. HELPFUL RESOURCES ........................................................................................................................ 23
APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................. 25
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST ................................................................................................ 33
vii
GENERAL INFORMATION
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR:
POSITION/TITLE:
AFFILIATION:
PROJECT TITLE:
RESEARCH SITES:
EXPEDITION LENGTH:
Ian Bell
Senior Conservation Officer, Turtle Research
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef
Ingram Island (Howick Group) and Milman
Island (Far Northern Great Barrier Reef),
Queensland, Australia
Teams I and II:
Teams III and IV:
TEAM SIZE MINIMUM/MAXIMUM:
6/8 volunteers
MINIMUM AGE OF PARTICIPATION:
18 years of age *
15 days
13 days
* It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate if accompanied by a parent or
guardian. Contact Earthwatch for more information and see Section 9 ‘Before You Leave’ for
traveling advice for minors.
1
THE EXPEDITION
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW
“The most positive experience was networking with people from all over the world, meeting scientists and
nature enthusiasts who have devoted their entire life for the environment in which they live.”
~ Burgess Cooper, Earthwatch Volunteer
The Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef project was designed to find out what is happening
with hawksbill turtle populations in northern Queensland and in the western Pacific – are
populations increasing, decreasing or remaining steady? To date, nesting populations have been
decreasing by about three percent per year, but this project hopes that management actions are
turning this trend around.
As a member of this project you will be required to participate in all aspects of routine research,
including tagging and measuring turtles, recording information on nesting or foraging habitat
and assisting with laparoscopy. Nesting work also includes quantifying reproductive output
(counting and measuring eggs) and measuring hatching success.
This is a very hands-on project. You must be prepared to work hard and get dirty as the project
staff members will rely on you to do the work after initial training. Teams I and II will have to be
prepared to spend a lot of time wet and in small boats assisting with turtle catching, and
afterwards working on the beach processing turtles in soft sand. Volunteers on Teams III and IV
will spend every night walking many kilometers around the island, also in soft sand. The ability
to “combat crawl” under bushes seeking turtles also comes in handy!
Note: See Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef: The Research in the appendix of this briefing for
information on the research objectives, methods, and results of this project.
2
2. RESEARCH AREA
Teams I and II: Ingram Island (Howick Group)
Teams I and II will be based on Ingram Island in the Howick Group and will conduct the
foraging surveys. Ingram Island is similar to Milman Island, where Teams III and IV will work,
except it supports a casuarina (a type of tree) forest instead of a closed rainforest. A lagoon
adjacent to the island provides protection from wind for access and vessel mooring. The reefs
around the island group have been identified as a major east Australian foraging area for
hawksbill turtles. A vegetated cay occurs at one end of Ingram Reef, where the turtle research
team has a basic camp. Traditionally this is a dry time of year and fresh water will be limited to
cooking, drinking, etc. While these islands are uninhabited and remote, tourist and commercial
fishing vessels and the odd sea kayaker occasionally visit them.
Teams III and IV: Milman Island
Milman Island is an uninhabited, densely wooded sand cay located 28 kilometers/18 miles seaward
of the eastern side of Cape York Peninsula and 600 kilometers/375 miles north of Cairns in
Queensland, Australia. Apart from a 500-meter long strip of beach rock on the western side of the
island, the beach surrounding Milman Island is composed entirely of coral sand and rubble.
A large reef flat surrounds most of the island and dries at low tide. This reef flat connects to another
small rocky island called Aplin Islet, three kilometers/two miles southeast of Milman Island. The
study site at Milman Island was selected for three reasons. First, the island supports the highest
density of hawksbill turtles nesting within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and possibly the
entire South Pacific Ocean. Secondly, a comprehensive, long-term nesting population database
exists for the island. Finally its remoteness provides an increased level of protection from human
interference. The island is situated approximately 80 kilometers/50 miles south of Thursday Island,
which, with approximately 2,000 people, is the largest human population center of the region.
Although this is not a great distance for Torres Strait people to travel, small boat access to Milman is
difficult from Thursday Island or from the mainland because the island is exposed to strong
southeasterly trade winds for approximately nine months of the year. Milman Island is, however,
situated within 15 kilometers/9.5 miles of the main north-south shipping channel, allowing
researchers access to the island via commercial freight vessels.
3
3. PROJECT STAFF
Principal Investigator
Ian Bell is responsible for determining the species composition, population structure and
distribution of turtles at nesting beaches and foraging grounds in North Queensland. Since 1995
he has undertaken surveys at many sites along the Queensland coast, including commercial ports
and Raine Island, the world’s primary green turtle rookery, and in several areas in the IndoPacific region and in the Arabian Gulf. He recently completed a five-year project on hawksbill
turtle populations in North Queensland. Ian also undertakes surveys with Traditional Owner
groups to develop the skills necessary within the communities to self-manage their turtle
populations. He provides advice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups and Indigenous
Liaison Units within State and Federal conservation agencies on turtle population distribution
and abundance. This advice assists them in establishing guidelines for hunting quotas in North
Queensland. During his past 10 years in turtle research, Ian has tagged thousands of turtles and
conducted over 3,000 laparoscopic surgical examinations of turtles. He has trained over 150
Aboriginal Rangers, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service field staff members and research
volunteers in survey techniques and has produced a research methods procedural manual. Ian
expects to be onsite with all Earthwatch teams this season.
Research Staff
Sam Dibella will provide logistical support and will be Second Vessel Master during foraging
surveys. He has been a Marine Park Ranger for 15 years and is a fully qualified vessel skipper.
Sam undertook a turtle nesting and foraging monitoring program on Green Island for three
years. He has participated in numerous turtle programs in the northern Great Barrier Reef. Sam
expects to be onsite with Teams I and II this season.
Tim Harvey is currently Project Manager at CRC Reef Research Centre and has several years’
experience in turtle nesting and foraging surveys. He is President of the Indo-Pacific Sea Turtle
Conservation Group. At the time of printing, he did not expect to be onsite during the 2008
expeditions.
Other staff with appropriate skills will be involved where necessary.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Participation
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will also be invited to participate in the surveys.
Their involvement in the project will help increase their understanding of the scientific methods
used in ascertaining turtle population numbers, while also increasing understanding of turtle
biology and conservation needs. Given the fluidity of people movements in the communities, the
logistics of inviting and arranging to get people to the study sites will be organized closer to
expedition start dates.
4
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD
4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS
Training
Initial training will occur onboard the ship en-route to the study site. In situations where the
Principal Investigator (PI) is already at the study site, volunteers will be given full training once
on the island. Training will be in the form of PowerPoint presentations and practical research
methodology workshops.
There will be an initial comprehensive safety talk about operating in and around the boats, how
to lift and move turtles, being aware of possible injuries, watching out for flying sand that the
turtles occasionally flick up, etc. These issues will also be reinforced continually during the trip.
Volunteers must be able to swim and be totally comfortable in water.
Assignments
Earthwatch volunteers are integral to the success of this project and will be involved in all aspects
of the research, except actually catching turtles from boats during rodeo captures on foraging
surveys. It is vital that volunteers are aware that they will be required to participate in tagging
and measuring turtles, in digging up, counting and measuring clutches of eggs, and in assisting
with laparoscopic examination of turtles.
In addition to assisting with turtle surveys, everyone will be expected to contribute to the daily
operation of the camp: preparing meals, general housekeeping around camp, refueling vessels
(foraging surveys), organizing research equipment, data recording, assisting with data entry, etc.
Teams I and II: Foraging Surveys on Ingram Island
Most of the work will be daytime rodeoing (catching) of immature and adult turtles, primarily
hawksbills. Volunteers will be required to assist with turtle captures and will be present in the
catch-boats at all times on the water. However, actually catching turtles will be undertaken by
experienced turtle rodeo personnel ONLY. This will involve diving from moving dinghies,
grabbing the turtle at the front and rear of the carapace, and then directing the animal to the
surface. At this point the catch-boat will maneuver up to the diver and volunteers will collect the
turtle. When a suitable number of turtles have been collected the boat will return to the beach
where measurement and laparoscopic data will be collected.
Where possible, every 3-4 days volunteers will have a day off from on-water activities. During
this time you will have to remain in camp to ensure that communication with the catch vessels is
maintained.
While not ideal, vessel-based surveys can be undertaken in up to 20 knots of wind. If, however,
conditions are unsuitable for vessel surveys, volunteers can catch turtles by running after them at
low tide within a sandy reef lagoon. This is a common technique the project has employed in the
past and can be very rewarding.
5
Teams III and IV: Nesting Surveys on Milman Island
All volunteers will accompany the PI or staff on the first night and will be trained in how to tag
and measure a turtle. Volunteers will have to show sufficient competency in these tasks before
being allowed to undertake the work independently. People will work in pairs, with one person
tagging and measuring and the other recording data. Over the first few nights the PI will work
with each pair to ensure that people feel comfortable undertaking the work.
On average, the research teams see 6-15 hawksbill turtles a night. Flatback turtles rarely nest on the
island but may be seen in middle to late February. Hawksbill turtles will be double-tagged and
measured. In addition, each clutch will be counted, the success of the nesting attempt will be
determined, all commensals (barnacles/algae) will be identified, and behavior will be monitored and
timed. When clutches are counted, 10 eggs will be selected at random, weighed and measured
within an hour of laying. Clutches can ONLY be counted within two hours of laying. When time
permits, hatchlings, 10 from a clutch, will be weighed, measured and released.
Volunteers may also participate in additional turtle studies. Inter-season remigrants (ISRs) are
important animals and additional measurements and data will be collected on these animals. Bird
surveys will also be conducted and lists and notes on breeding status will be made.
Note that most of the work will take place after dark. Although several activities are undertaken
during the day, the daylight hours are essentially recreational/rest time to catch up on sleep, etc.
5. TEAM ITINERARY
The first teams at both Ingram (Team I) and Milman (Team III) islands will need to assist with
establishing camp. This requires carrying large amounts of gear from the landing barge to the
campsite and erecting a large communal marquee. The last group off each island (Teams II and
IV) will be involved in decamping and cleaning up the campsite.
Teams I and II: Foraging Surveys on Ingram Island
Day 1:
Day 2:
Days 3-12:
Day 13:
Day 14:
Rendezvous in Cairns at 7:00 am, assist with vessel loading and depart*
Travel, arrive at island, establish camp (Team I only)
Turtle research
Decamp (Team II only), depart and begin travel to Cairns
Arrive in Cairns*
Teams III and IV: Nesting Surveys on Milman Island
Day 1:
Day 2:
Day 3:
Days 3-10:
Day 11:
Day 12:
Day 13:
Rendezvous in Cairns at 9:00 am, assist with vessel loading and depart in the
afternoon*
Travel
Travel, arrive at island, establish camp (Team III only)
Turtle research
Turtle research, decamp (Team IV only), depart and begin travel to Cairns
Travel
Arrive in Cairns (date of arrival subject to change)*
* Remember to carefully review the rendezvous and departure details in the printed Expedition
Briefing you will receive upon signing up for the project.
6
6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS
Please be aware that schedules can and do fluctuate due to weather, research needs, tide times,
etc. Your cooperation and understanding are appreciated.
Teams I and II: Foraging Surveys on Ingram Island
All surveys are scheduled in relation to the tidal patterns, and therefore it is difficult to describe a
typical day. However, for a morning high tide the following schedule would be undertaken:
6:00-700 am:
700 am-1:00 pm:
1:00-1:30 pm:
1:30-4:00 pm:
4:00-5:00 pm:
5:00-7:00 pm:
7:00 pm:
Eat breakfast and prepare for the day’s surveys
Catch turtles and return to beach
Lunch
Collect data, measure/weigh turtles
Recreational time
Meal preparation
Recreational time
On days when there is an afternoon high tide, the mornings will be recreational time and the
team will work later into the evenings.
Teams III and IV: Nesting Surveys on Milman Island
The schedule for nighttime nesting surveys is highly variable. The team will go out on the beach
approximately 1.5 hours before high tide at night, although when there are extra tides and a standing
tide, shifts will be undertaken around the island from sun-down to sun-up. Team members will go
to bed whenever the reef flat has become exposed and no more turtles can emerge. Timing for this
will alter each night as the tidal cycle advances. The following is a rough outline of a day for Teams
III and IV:
9:00-10:00 am:
10:00-11:30 am:
11:30 am-12:30 pm:
12:30-2:00 pm:
2:00-5:00 pm:
5:00-6:30 pm:
6:30 pm:
Awake, prepare and eat breakfast, clean-up
Recreational time
Data entry
Snack/Lunch
Recreational time
Prepare a meal and get ready for the evening work
Collect data, conduct beach surveys, tagging, measurements, etc.
Recreational Time
It will not be possible to leave the island during recreational time. When not participating in team
activities, volunteers will be able to catch up on sleep, relax in hammocks, explore the island,
swim or snorkel, etc. Bring reading materials, board games, cards, and/or other items to stay busy
during non-research time. A hammock is useful for finding a shady tree where there is a breeze.
Earthwatch has a duty of care to our participants from the rendezvous to the end of the
expedition. In order to ensure you are as safe during your recreational time as you are during
research time, we have put a number of measures in place.
• If there is a recreational day during the expedition, the project staff will offer either a planned
team activity or a small choice of 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. All participants are strongly encouraged to take part in the group
activity, but if you are determined to pursue other options you will be asked to sign a release
before doing so, stating that Earthwatch is not responsible for your welfare.
7
• When there is a period of free time scheduled into a regular research day, the staff will ask
you to sign out of the project (using a means which may vary by project and project location)
if planning to leave the group. This will include your destination and estimated time of return.
If participants do not show up to the next activity the project staff will then know where to
begin a search.
• In the evenings when you can go out at night, you will again be asked to sign out of the
project as above. The project staff will give you 24-hour contact information for them should
assistance be needed. The sign-out is informational only and will not be used to enforce a
curfew. Please be aware that project staff would not start a search until the following morning
or the next scheduled activity unless contacted for help sooner.
7. ACCOMMODATIONS
Teams I and II: During Travel to Ingram Island
Travel to Ingram Island from Cairns is by a small (18-meter/60-foot) research vessel. Facilities
aboard are adequate but cramped. There are small sleeping cabins and a dining and lounge area,
which will also be used as a sleeping area. Privacy will be limited, though cabins will be
separated by gender. Bedding will be provided.
Teams III and IV: During Travel to Milman Island
Travel to Milman Island is aboard a coastal freighter, the Trinity Bay, which is designed to
accommodate paying passengers. As such, all facilities are available and volunteers will sleep in
well-appointed cabins in transit from Cairns. See www.seaswift.com.au for more information.
Please note that depending on the number of volunteers on the team, cabins may be of mixed
gender. Each cabin contains a basin, mirror and electrical outlet. Bedding will be provided. There
is a common dining area with a shared refrigerator. Meals, tea, coffee, and snacks will be
provided during the crossing. Luggage will be limited to one overnight bag or suitcase per
person.
All Teams: Accommodations in the Field
While at the study site, volunteers will sleep in their own tents. The campsite will have a gas
refrigerator and freezer, camp tables and chairs, a gas cooker, kitchen utensils, cutlery and
crockery. The project will provide a marquee tent (a large group space) for team activities. You
should bring your own sleeping tent. Alternatively, a tent can be provided by the project with
sufficient notice; please inform your Earthwatch Expedition Coordinator as soon as possible if
you are going to need a tent. Volunteers on Teams III and IV should be advised that conditions
can get very warm and humid, so a tent with adequate ventilation is recommended.
If you intend to bring any electronic equipment such as digital cameras, Walkmans, iPods, etc., be
aware that conditions on the islands are hot, humid, salty, wet and sandy, and can be very
damaging to this kind of equipment. Please ensure you have adequate protection for any
equipment, and bring enough batteries as it will not be possible to buy more once at the study
site. The only electricity supply will be a portable 1.5 KVA, 240-volt, multi-socket, petrol
generator and a solar panel for charging a high-amperage battery, to maintain radio and satellite
phone communication. This will be available for charging equipment if you bring a suitable 240volt charging device, but please bear in mind that project equipment takes top priority.
8
Bathing, Toilet, and Laundry Facilities
Volunteers must be comfortable with a minimum of privacy at times. Project staff strongly advise
using the ocean for all ablutions. This may seem strange at first, but it is not worth taking the risk
of establishing a plant or animal pathogen on the islands. Using the ocean is clean and tidy as
long as you note the direction of the current and allow the waste to be carried off into deep water.
Staff will usually designate a specific area for ablutions an appropriate distance from swimming
areas. However, it is appreciated that not everyone feels comfortable with this arrangement and
therefore a portable toilet (bucket with seat) will also be erected.
Please remember that water is a precious resource on these islands. The team will have to
transport all fresh water to the study site. This water will be primarily for drinking and cooking,
and should only be used very sparingly for washing. Therefore bathing should be done in the sea
using biodegradable soap, etc. Showers will be limited to rainfall events or a dip in the ocean and
a very quick fresh water rinse if there is enough water available. Hot water will not be available
for bathing.
If enough rainwater is caught laundry may be done in a wash bin and hung on lines adjacent to
the camp. You can expect to spend most of each day in a swimsuit with the option to change into
“fresh” clothing in the evening if desired. If you are concerned about having a fresh change of
clothes to change into each evening you should bring enough clean clothing and underwear for
the entire time at the study site. However, you are advised to keep luggage to a minimum (see
Section 12 ‘Packing Considerations’).
Rubbish
Everything the team brings to the island must also be removed. Any personal sanitary items (e.g.
sanitary pads or tampons) must be disposed of in the designated rubbish area. These can NOT be
left in the tidal areas or the ocean as they will not biodegrade rapidly. All non-perishable rubbish
will be sorted into recyclable and non-recyclable categories and removed from the study site. In
addition, the team will carry out a collection of rubbish that has washed up on the island.
9
8. FOOD
All volunteers and staff are expected to help with cooking and clean-up of dishes. This duty is
usually rotated between pairs of people and whoever cooks has the task of cleaning up on the
same night. The team will bring all food to the island, packed into weekly allotments for the
entire trip. Fresh vegetables and meat usually last for about a week, and while available, meat
dishes will be served every other night. Vegetarian diets can easily be arranged if identified with
sufficient notice in the volunteer forms. All water will be brought to the island in 44-gallon plastic
drums and will be safe to drink. Volunteers are encouraged to drink continuously while at the
study site. Dehydration is a potential hazard when working in hot, humid conditions.
Below are examples of the foods and drinks you might expect during your expedition. Please
bear in mind that variety depends on availability. This list is intended to provide a general idea
of food types, but it is very important that volunteers be flexible.
Breakfast:
Lunch:
Dinner:
Snacks:
Beverages:
Muesli, granola, powdered milk, fresh or tinned fruit, honey, dried fruit
Crackers, tinned meat, biscuits, peanut butter, jam, vegemite, cheese,
chutney, fresh fruit and vegetables when available
Meat dishes when available (e.g. beef stroganoff, steak, sausages), rice, pasta,
dehydrated vegetables, tinned meat and vegetables, sauces (e.g. sweet and
sour, satay)
Dried fruit, cookies/biscuits, instant pudding, fruit cake, bread, tinned fruit,
fresh fruit when available
Water, tea, coffee, hot or cold chocolate, cordial (non-alcoholic juice mix)
Note: The minimum drinking age in Queensland is 18 years of age. Alcohol can be enjoyed in
moderation by of-age volunteers; however, for safety reasons, a zero blood-alcohol level will be
observed prior to all work times. Alcoholic beverages will not be provided; if you would like
alcohol during the expedition you will need to purchase it yourself before departing Cairns.
Special Dietary Requirements
Please alert your Earthwatch Expedition Coordinator to any special dietary requirements as soon
as possible (e.g. diabetic, lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, etc.) by noting such issues on your
volunteer forms. Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed and can be very difficult as all
food and supplies must be prepared in advance and brought onto the island with the team; it will
not be possible to acquire additional items once on the island.
Special note to vegans and strict vegetarians: Please be aware that it is often difficult to
accommodate strict vegetarians and vegans. It will be possible to get meatless meals but vegans
and strict vegetarians may have a problem avoiding animal products altogether. If this poses a
problem, then participation on this Earthwatch expedition should be seriously reconsidered.
10
TRAVEL PLANNING
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Note: Earthwatch Institute’s international travel insurance company, International SOS, has a
wealth of useful information available at their website, including visa, passport, currency,
medical, etc. information for Australia. See www.internationalsos.com and enter Earthwatch’s
member identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select Resource” choose “English
Country Guide,” and then select Australia from the list. For a listing of other useful websites for
passport and visa requirements, see Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources.’
Requirements for Entry into Australia
Most volunteers traveling from outside Australia will require a passport valid for at least six
months beyond the dates of travel.
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan,
require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for entry to Australia. The ETA replaces the
standard tourist visa for visitors staying up to three months in Australia. This can be purchased
through your travel agent at the same time as purchasing an airline ticket, or by applying online
at www.eta.immi.gov.au at a cost of AU$20. Please apply for your ETA as a tourist; if you say
you are working on a research project it may complicate matters for you. Be aware that the
requirements for entry into Australia change on a regular basis. Visas are mandatory for
nationals from some countries but not others. Earthwatch volunteers from outside Australia must
consult with a travel agent to determine whether they require a visa. Please be sure your passport
is up-to-date and allow sufficient time for the visa application/ETA process.
If you require a visa, as opposed to an ETA (see above), the information below should be useful.
Essential Information for Volunteers NOT Eligible for an ETA
Type of Visa
Where to Get
a Visa
Required
Information
Cost of a Visa
Volunteers NOT eligible for an ETA (see above) must get a TOURIST VISA.
Contact the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate to find out how to apply
for your visa. Please note that this process can take weeks or more. If you have
less than six weeks or wish to save yourself trouble, we strongly recommend
using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.
You will need to send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your
stay), a Visa Application and Immigration Form, 2-4 passport-size photos plus
payment to the embassy or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that your
passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Generally between US$40-100, but varies from country to country and can
potentially cost up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee, which
you can inquire about directly.
11
Reminder: The purpose of your visit is for vacation, holiday or travel. Words such as
“working”/”volunteering,” “research” or a “scientific expedition” can raise questions concerning
foreign labor laws and/or prompt questions about official scientific research permits and
credentials, etc., to which volunteers on their own will not be equipped to respond. All required
research permits for the project are in place and have been approved by the proper authorities.
Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age
Entry to Foreign Countries
In an effort to prevent international child abduction many governments have initiated
procedures at entry/exit points. It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate in the
project if accompanied by a parent or guardian. In this case, if the minor will be traveling with
only one guardian or if for any reason they will be traveling alone, it may be necessary to have a
notarized letter from all legal guardians stipulating that they may travel unaccompanied or in the
presence of a single guardian. This letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or
someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one
parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter
should state that.
In addition, airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors.
Parents of minors are responsible for checking with each airline that their child will be flying to
ensure that sufficient documentation is provided. This could include a copy of a birth certificate
or a notarized letter stating that the minor has his or her parent’s permission to travel alone or
with only one parent.
Note: Requirements by specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You MUST
keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If a letter is
not available, the volunteer under 18 can be refused entry into the country. There is nothing
Earthwatch Institute can do to help in this circumstance.
Travel Medical Insurance
Travel medical and evacuation insurance is mandatory for Earthwatch volunteers while on an
Earthwatch expedition anywhere in the world. The cost of this insurance is included in your
volunteer contribution. It covers volunteer travel medical risk, including medical expenses and
medical evacuation, while traveling with Earthwatch overseas or on an expedition within your
home country. Without insurance, the costs of such measures can range from US$20,000 to
$50,000.
The emergency medical and evacuation assistance provider for Earthwatch is On Call
International. On Call is a 24-hour international operation which provides medical assistance and
evacuation, a 24-hour nurse help line and other travel assistance services such as lost baggage
and lost document assistance.
Basic coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during international
travel to and from your expedition. If the expedition takes place in your home country, coverage
begins when your group forms for the expedition and ends when the group disbands, and is
incremental to your existing health insurance. Options are available for volunteers who would
like to extend the period of coverage, increase insurance amounts or purchase additional
cancellation or baggage insurance. Application forms for additional coverage are included in
your volunteer packet.
12
A detailed description of the Volunteer Medical and Evacuation Insurance Program policy,
including the optional coverage increases, will be sent with this briefing. Please note that
policies are specific to each Earthwatch office.
To contact On Call International in the event of an emergency, dial:
•
•
1-866-509-7715 from within the US
+1-603-898-9159 from outside the US
State that you are on an Earthwatch expedition. The Earthwatch policy number is #US008020.
Cancellation Insurance
Trip cancellation insurance is highly recommended for Earthwatch volunteers. Depending on the
level of coverage you purchase, cancellation insurance will help cover your airfare and
Earthwatch contribution if you need to cancel your expedition due to medical or other covered
reasons. Earthwatch Institute does not reimburse airfare or costs associated with cancelled flights
or expeditions. Levels of reimbursement for cancelled airline tickets or ticket change fees will
vary depending on what type of trip cancellation policy you purchase. You are strongly advised
to buy flexible or refundable plane tickets. Note that volunteers with preexisting medical
conditions are encouraged to explore their coverage options.
For US and Canadian Volunteers
Earthwatch is offering comprehensive optional travel insurance through CSA Travel
Protection as a service to our US and Canadian volunteers. While our inclusive insurance covers
your emergency medical needs while in the field, this optional policy covers trip cancellation
insurance due to medical emergencies, lost luggage, travel delays, etc. For more information on
the insurance policy, call Earthwatch at 1‐800‐776‐0188 or visit www.csatravelprotection.com.
Please note that some coverage is dependent on purchasing insurance within 24 hours of paying
in full for your expedition. Should you decide to take out our optional insurance, please use the
following producer code to indicate your affiliation with Earthwatch: 83534816.
For Volunteers Signing Up through Earthwatch Europe
Earthwatch Europe volunteers can purchase travel insurance from Earthwatch that is
underwritten by Endsleigh and includes Additional Cancellation Cover. Additional Cancellation
Cover insurance includes cover for non-refundable travel expenses should your expedition be
cancelled. Alternatively, if Earthwatch Europe volunteers hold their own travel insurance they
may be able to purchase Additional Cancellation Cover through their existing insurer.
Travel Agencies
Contact your local travel agent or use the web to find the lowest rates to make your travel
arrangements. A list of suggested travel agents can be found in Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources.’ Be
sure to give your rendezvous details to your travel agent as soon as possible so they can plan
your trip accordingly.
13
Other Advice / Information
•
Language: English
•
Time zone: GMT/UTC + 10 hours
•
Electricity: A generator will provide limited electricity at 240 volts, 50 Hz, using threepronged plugs with flat blades (see image). You may bring and charge small electronic
equipment, however, be aware that project equipment will always take top priority and that
electronics can be damaged by sand, water, humidity, etc.
•
Telephone dialing codes: When calling Australia from another country, dial the country’s
international dialing code, followed by ‘61’ and the number. When calling within Australia,
omit the ‘61’ and dial ‘0.’ When calling another country from Australia, dial ‘0011,’ followed
by the other country’s country code and the number.
•
Local currency: Australian dollar (AU$). See the International SOS website (above) and
www.xe.com/ucc for currency information and exchange rates.
•
Personal funds: You can exchange money at the airport (baggage claim area and arrivals hall)
or in Cairns on arrival, or obtain AU$ via banks/ATMs in Cairns. Cairns is a very tourist
oriented city with plenty of day tours available (e.g. crocodile farms, boat trips, rainforest),
most of which cost around AU$100. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Cairns.
You will not be able to obtain money once on the island and no money will be needed.
•
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Australia, except when exceptional service is provided.
•
Quarantine: Australia has strict quarantine regulations making it inadvisable to carry food,
fruit, vegetables or seeds into the country.
•
Checking luggage: Please note that if you will be taking an international flight that has one or
more connections within Australia, it will be necessary to collect any checked bags at the
airport where you first arrive in the country. After proceeding through Customs, you will
have to recheck your luggage before flying on to your final destination.
14
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS
Please show this section to your physician when he/she is completing your health statement. Be sure to
discuss inoculation requirements with your physician well in advance of your departure date. See Section
11 ‘Health Information’ for inoculation information.
To the examining physician:
Your patient has volunteered to join a field research team that has specific physical demands of
which you and your patient should be aware. We need your accurate evaluation of your
patient’s ability to meet the conditions detailed below in order to safeguard his/her health and
safety and ensure that he/she can participate fully and effectively.
Teams I and II: Foraging Surveys on Ingram Island
General Conditions of the Research Site
Ingram Island is uninhabited and densely wooded with beaches composed mostly of coral sand and
rubble. A reef flat surrounds most of the island, though a lagoon provides protection from wind and
allows access to the island. Teams I and II will visit in the Australian winter, traditionally a
dry/cooler time of the year. As such, weather at the study site will likely be dry and warm:
30°C/86°F during the day with little or no cloud cover, and evening temperatures dipping to
around 15°C/60°F. It can become very windy as there is little barrier to the wind as it travels over
the sea. Be aware that it is very easy to underestimate the power of the sun in these conditions
and all sensible care must be taken.
Humidity
Temperature range
20%
15°C/60°F
to
to
40%
30°C/86°F
Water Conditions
Teams I and II will spend several hours each day in small catch-boats (4.4 meters/14.5 feet). Sea
state will vary from calm to rough. Occasionally volunteers may be expected to enter the water to
assist with getting turtles onboard. This will usually be on reef flats and the maximum water
depth will only be about one meter. The water temperature will usually be around 23°C/74°F.
Volunteers must be able to swim and should feel very comfortable in and around water.
Typical water temperature during Teams I and II
Typical water visibility
Typical maximum water depth in area
Types of water environment
Anticipated sea state during Teams I and II
Timing of boat based work
23°C/74°F
10 m/40 ft
20 m/66 ft
Reef flats
Calm
7:00 am
to
to
25°C/77°F
15 m/50 ft
to
to
rough
1:00 pm
Physical Demands
Foraging work can be very tiring and volunteers must be in good physical condition. All
volunteers MUST be able to swim to participate in Team I or II. Working on a small boat can
present challenges to the most experienced person. You should be prepared to deal with motion
sickness even if you have never experienced it before. Exposure to sun, wind and water while
standing in a continuously moving boat and lifting turtles can be very physically demanding.
The technique used in assisting with catching turtles requires a reasonable amount of upper body
strength and excellent balance in a rocking boat. Adult hawksbill turtles generally weigh about 80
kilograms/176 pounds. Volunteers will be required to assist with lifting turtles in and out of
15
vessels and moving them around on sandy beaches, which can be physically challenging.
Additionally, there may be some shared heavy lifting when setting up and breaking down the
camp. However, team members will work together and no one will be expected to carry any
more than 20 kilograms/45 pounds unassisted.
Below is a tentative outline of the physical demands you can expect on Teams I and II.
Activity
Sitting
Bending
Walking
Carrying
Swimming
Working on a boat
Workload/Intensity
5 hours per day
1 hour per day
Daily around campsite
20 kg/45 lb for 1.5 hours per day
0.5 hours per day to cool/clean off
6-7 hours per day while catching turtles
Teams III and IV: Nesting Surveys on Milman Island
General Conditions of the Research Site
Milman Island is uninhabited, densely wooded, and surrounded by a large reef flat that dries at low
tide. Apart from a long strip of beach rock on the western side, the beach surrounding the island
is composed entirely of coral sand and rubble. Teams III and IV will visit in the Australian
summer. Although constant sea breezes may help to cool things down, you can expect conditions
to be hot and humid (up to 47°C/113°F and 75% humidity) in sheltered locations during the day.
Evening temperatures will usually drop to about 26°C/79°F but it will still remain relatively
humid. There is also the likelihood of heavy tropical rain at times. Be aware that it is very easy to
underestimate the power of the sun in these conditions and all sensible care must be taken.
Humidity
50%
Temperature range 26°C/79°F
Rainfall
0 cm/0 in
to
to
to
95%
47°C/113°F
25 cm/10 in
Physical Demands
Volunteers on Teams III and IV should be in good to very good physical condition for nesting
work. All work is conducted in remote locations and is physically strenuous. Volunteers should
be able to walk several kilometers (1-2 miles) per night on hard and/or soft sand at a reasonably
fast pace. Walking on sand is more difficult than walking on hard level surfaces and can be very
tiring if you are unused to it. Volunteers should be capable of climbing over boulders and other
small obstacles and bending over turtles when measuring and tagging. Occasionally people will
have to crawl on hands and knees to access turtles under bushes and trees. Volunteers should be
comfortable with working at night in often very dark conditions. There may also be some shared
heavy lifting when setting up and breaking down the camp. However, team members will work
together and no one will be expected to carry any more than 20 kilograms/45 pounds unassisted.
Below is a tentative outline of the physical demands you can expect on Teams III and IV.
Activity
Sitting
Bending
Walking
Carrying
Swimming
Workload/Intensity
5 hours per day
1 hour per day
5 hours per day while monitoring beaches
20 kg/45 lb for 1 hour per day
0.5 hours per day to cool/clean off
16
All Teams: Potential Hazards
Hazard Type
Remoteness
Climate
Research
equipment
Working
with turtles
Darkness
Terrain
Infection
Disease
Associated Risks and Precautions
The team will live and work on a remote island with no regular boat or air traffic
in the area. Should a medical emergency arise, it could take a several hours for
medical evacuation; evacuation is further dependent on weather and aircraft
availability. Because the study sites are so remote, seemingly everyday mishaps
can have unforeseen consequences; you must be aware of possible hazards at all
times. See Section 14 ‘Emergencies in the Field’ for more information.
Teams will be working in sunny, hot, and often humid conditions; particularly on
Milman Island, daytime temperatures can be as high as 47°C/113°F with very
high humidity. These conditions place you at risk of heat-related illnesses, such as
dehydration, sunburn, sunstroke and eye damage. Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses,
covering clothing and adequate water consumption are essential. Remember to
wear adequate gear (including a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves and sunglasses)
and high-factor sunscreen, drink plenty of water throughout the day, stay in the
shade as much as possible, and leave strenuous tasks until cooler times of day
whenever possible. Staff will place great emphasis on ensuring that all volunteers
are protected against the sun and heat. There will be frequent water breaks to
encourage volunteers to drink water during active fieldwork. Exercise precaution
even when the sky is overcast. Remember to take rests as needed and inform
project staff if you are feeling at all unwell.
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will supply all safety equipment and
specialist turtle research equipment in the field, and project staff will instruct
volunteers in proper use and risks. There is potential risk associated with
refueling the boat tanks, as the fuel is flammable. Tanks will be stored well away
from the campsite and smoking will not be permitted anywhere near the petrol
drums. Rinse spills on clothing and skin instantly using seawater. An eyewash
solution to treat splashes to the eyes will also be available.
Handling turtles may result in bites, scratches, flicked sand to the eyes, knee or
back strain, crushing or other injuries. Project staff will instruct participants on
how to work with the turtles and lift them properly to avoid injury. No one will
be asked to lift beyond their ability. Safety glasses will be provided.
There are no artificial lights and it can get very dark on moonless or cloudy
nights. There may be unfamiliar noises coming from the island forest and some
people have found this to be disconcerting. You will need to be capable of and
comfortable with walking around in the dark or with a headlamp. Participants
should be mentally and physically prepared for the remoteness of this expedition.
Because you will be walking on uneven, sandy beaches and the work conditions
are challenging, falls, bruises, breaks and sprains are all risks. Your team will be
taken on a tour of the island and made aware of potential hazards (e.g. slippery
rocks on Milman Island).
There is risk of infection from cuts, scrapes and more serious skin injuries, due to
the basic field conditions and the longer time it takes for skin injuries to heal in
tropical climates. A First Aid kit will be available onsite to treat cuts and scrapes;
for more serious injuries, evacuation to seek medical attention may be required.
Dengue fever, Ross River fever, Australian bat lyssavirus, leptospirosis, tick
typhus, Q fever, Queensland tick typhus, scrub typhus, and meliodiosis occur in
this area. The risk of contracting these diseases is very low, but nevertheless exists
and appropriate First Aid equipment will always be available as a precautionary
measure. Most diseases are prevented with basic safety cautions. See Section 11
‘Health Information’ for inoculation recommendations.
17
Hazard Type
Insect bites
Swimming/
Snorkeling
(optional and
recreational)
Boat-related
risks (Teams
I and II only)
Land animals
(Teams III
and IV only)
Cyclones
(Teams III
and IV only)
Associated Risks and Precautions (Continued)
Some volunteers have reacted badly to sand fly and/or mosquito bites. You
should use repellent (provided) to avoid bites wherever possible. Persons with
allergies should bring along appropriate medications (antihistamines, at least two
epi-pens, etc.) and inform project staff of any allergies.
If desired, during recreational time you will have the opportunity to swim or
snorkel on the reefs surrounding the island. All risks (tides, currents, dangerous
wildlife and invertebrates, etc.) and strict safety guidelines will be discussed
before any snorkeling. Participants are asked to inform staff when and where
they will be swimming or snorkeling. No swimming/snorkeling by team
members will be permitted if the PI determines ocean conditions are unsafe.
Recreational swimming/snorkeling alone or at night are prohibited.
Participants on Teams I and II will be required to work up to 6-7 hours in a small
catch-boat, and must be able to swim. These boats do not have canopies and you
will be exposed to sun, wind, salt spray, etc. Wet conditions will result in slippery
metal deck surfaces. There is also the possibility of falling overboard, leading to
cold-related injuries. Although the weather is generally very warm, wind chill is a
factor. At times the team will head across open water between reefs and the ride
will be bumpy. Conditions on the catch-boats are basic and all toilet breaks will
be taken in the sea. Life jackets must be worn at all times. A full safety briefing
will be given before working on these boats.
Estuarine crocodiles occasionally bask on the shores of Milman Island, but they
avoid contact with humans and have never posed a problem. They average about 11.5 meters long and are usually in the water before people are within 50 meters of
them. Amethyst pythons are also found, particularly at night, on the sand, in the
trees and along the beach-rock. They are non-venomous. The island has many
spiders, large centipedes and scorpions, but none of them are fatally venomous.
Teams III and IV will visit Queensland during the cyclone season. A
comprehensive cyclone response strategy is in place. Prior to arriving on the
island, contact will be established with the local police informing them that the
team will be on the island and the duration of the stay. In the event of a cyclone
warning being declared over the far northern section of the marine park, contact
will be made with police and arrangements will be made to evacuate. This is
likely to be effected via a range of methods, including helicopter or boat.
All Teams: Medical Conditions of Special Concern
It is essential that you get professional medical advice before joining this expedition. Because the
team will be working on a remote island in a tropical climate, the following conditions need to be
carefully considered prior to participation:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Epilepsy
Seizures
Heart or kidney problems
Neck, back and knee injuries/problems
Allergic reactions to insect bites
Any chronic medical condition subject to hospitalization or need for medical supervision
Additionally, transport to the study sites requires volunteers to be onboard sea-going vessels,
therefore discomfort in or around boats and conditions that affect balance would make this
difficult. Hydrophobia, uncontrolled inner ear infections, blood clotting issues and/or any
condition that interferes or limits swimming or breathing should be considered carefully. If you
suffer from motion or seasickness and intend to treat this with either over-the-counter or
18
prescribed medication, please discuss the use and side effects with your physician. Those
susceptible to motion or seasickness that is not easily treatable should reconsider participation
(particularly for Teams I and II). Also, daily immersion in salt water (for bathing, cooling off, and
some project tasks) can encourage fungal and/or urinary tract infections in some people. If you
are susceptible to either of these conditions you should bring appropriate medications. Finally, if
you are pregnant, you should inform your physician prior to joining the expedition.
11. HEALTH INFORMATION
See www.internationalsos.com for information on the current health conditions in Australia. At
the homepage, enter Earthwatch’s member identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select
Resource” choose “English Country Guide,” and then select Australia from the list.
Routine Immunizations
All volunteers should make sure to have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT
(diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (if you have
not already had chicken pox).
Project Inoculations
The following are recommendations only. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each
volunteer. Note that health conditions around the world are constantly changing, so keep
informed and consult your physician, a local travel health clinic, the US Center for Disease
Control (www.cdc.gov), the World Health Organization (www.who.int), Australia’s Department
of Health and Aging website (www.health.gov.au/internet/wcms/Publishing.nsf/Content/cdapubs-cdipubs.htm), International SOS (see above), and/or the resources in Section 15 ‘Helpful
Resources’ for the latest health information for travelers. Please consult your physician for
guidance on inoculations if you intend to travel to other parts of the country.
Yellow Fever
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
If traveling from a country or region where it is endemic, a Certificate of
Vaccination is required
Recommended for health reasons
Generally recommended for people traveling to other countries
Note that malaria is NOT present at the research site. A small outbreak was reported within
Daintree National Park in 2002, but was attributed to a person who stayed in the park after
traveling to Indonesia and Africa. There is no evidence of sustained malaria transmission in this
area. Malaria prophylaxis is not advised by authorities.
19
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS
PLEASE SEE THE PACKING CHECKLIST AT THE BACK OF THIS BRIEFING AND
REMEMBER TO TAKE YOUR BRIEFING WITH YOU ON YOUR EXPEDITION.
General Considerations
Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. For ease of transport a
backpack or dive bag is best. Please do not bring suitcases with wheels. Luggage should be
limited to 30 kilograms/66 pounds. Please note that as transfer from the transit vessel to the
islands is via either a small catch-boat or barge, you are strongly advised to ensure your luggage
and/or its contents are securely wrapped in a waterproof plastic bag. Although care will be
taken, accidents can and do happen and luggage can fall into the sea while accessing the beach.
You are also encouraged to pack a small carry-on bag with an extra set of field clothing and
personal essentials in case your luggage is lost and/or takes several days to catch up with you.
Please note that your carry-on should be taken on the vessel to the field site. Your main baggage
may go into general cargo and you may not be able to access it until you arrive on the island.
There are excellent opportunities to snorkel on the local reefs and to see the local wildlife,
therefore, snorkeling gear, a pair of binoculars and a digital camera are worth bringing. Also
bring anything that will help pass the recreational/rest time (e.g. books, cards, games, Walkman,
iPod, etc.). However, be aware that conditions on the islands are hot, humid, salty, wet and
sandy, and you are advised to have adequate protection for electronics. In addition, you are
reminded to bring enough batteries as it will not be possible to buy them once at the study site.
Weather Considerations
Please take weather conditions into consideration when packing for your expedition. Climate
information can be found in Section 10 ‘Project Conditions.’ Note that the biggest dangers are
sunburn and heat-related exhaustion. Bring clothing that covers your arms and legs, preferably
made of cotton as synthetic materials tend to keep you hotter and cause more rashes. Bring
sunscreen and a hat as well. Note that some sunscreen and insect repellant will be provided. You
should also come prepared for rain.
Essential Items
Make sure to bring your Earthwatch Expedition Briefing with you! It includes essential
information to which you may need to refer during your expedition, as well as during your
journey to and from the rendezvous site. Additionally, everyone on foraging surveys (Teams I
and II) will be required to wear something on their feet while in the boats and working with
turtles. Thick wetsuit booties are excellent for this; the lightweight slipper types are not as
suitable. For nesting teams (Teams III and IV), wetsuit booties are excellent when working on the
beach at night and a turtle decides to run over your feet. They also protect from most burrs.
Everyone on nesting teams will be required to wear something on their feet while working with
the turtles each night. Dive boots can be replaced with sandshoes for nesting teams.
Please see the Expedition Packing Checklist for a complete list of what you will need to take
with you. You are encouraged to go through the list and mark off each required item right before
you leave for your expedition.
20
13. RECOMMENDED READING
Please read Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef: The Research in the appendix of this
briefing. This document was prepared by the Principal Investigator and Earthwatch and explains
the research conducted through this project as well as some results to date. Below are additional
materials for those interested in further preparing for the expedition. Many can be purchased
online through popular vendors. See Section 15 ‘Helpful Resources’ for suggested vendor websites.
Books
•
Frazer, N.B., Klemens, M.W. (ed.). 2000. Turtle Conservation. Smithsonian Institution Press.
•
Bjorndal, K.A. 1995. Biology and Conservation of Sea Turtles. Revised edition. Smithsonian
Institution Press.
•
Lutz, P.L., Musick, J.A. (eds.). 1996. The Biology of Sea Turtles. CRC Press, Baton Rouge.
Journals/Articles
•
Bell, I.P., Miller, J.D., Dobbs, K.A., Limpus, C.J. 1998. “Hawksbill turtle movements in the
Coral Sea.” In Abreu-Grobois, F.A., Briseno-Duenas, R., Marquez, R., Sarti, L. (eds.)
Proceedings of the 18th International Sea Turtle Symposium. US Department of Commerce, NOAA
Technical Memorandum NMFS-SEFSC-436: 95.
•
Groombridge, B., Luxmoore, R. 1989. “The Green Turtle and Hawksbill (Reptilia: Cheloniidae):
World Status, Exploitation and Trade.” Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.
•
Limpus, C.J. 1997. “Marine turtles of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area,” Great
Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Workshop Series 23: 256-258.
•
Limpus, C.J., Miller, J.D. 1990. “The Use of Measured Scutes of Hawksbill Turtles,
Eretmochelys imbricata, in the Management of the Tortoiseshell (Bekko) Trade.” Australian
Wildlife Research 17 (6): 633-639.
•
Miller, J.D., Dobbs, K.A., Limpus, C.J., Mattocks, N., Landry, A.M. 1998. “Long-distance
migrations by the hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, from north-eastern Australia.”
Wildlife Research 25: 89-95.
•
Limpus, C.J. 1992b. “The hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, in Queensland: population
structure within a southern Great Barrier Reef feeding ground.” Wildlife Research 19: 489-506
(recommended for Teams I and II only).
•
Dobbs, K.A., Miller, J.D., Card, M.A., Mather, M., Haselmayer, J. 1997. “Birds of Milman
Island.” Corella 21 37-43 (recommended for Teams III and IV only).
•
Dobbs, K.A., Miller, J.D., Limpus, C.J., Landry, A.M. Jr. 1999. “Hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys
imbricata, nesting at Milman Island, Northern Great Barrier Reef, Australia.” Chelonian
Conservation and Biology 3 (2): 344-361 (recommended for Teams III and IV only).
Film
•
Raine Island: Nature’s War Zone. Discovery Channel/Digital Dimensions (although this film is
about green turtles, it gives a good general introduction to turtles in the Great Barrier Reef; if
facilities allow, volunteers will be shown this film in transit to the study site).
Project Field Report
Each Earthwatch Institute-supported project submits a report on the past year’s research and
results to Earthwatch, generally on an annual basis. The most recent field report for this project
may be available online through www.earthwatch.org/expeditions/bell.html. Note that reports
are not available for all projects.
21
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD
All Teams: Proximity to Medical Care
Project staff have current Remote First Aid and CPR certification and First Aid kits are available
on the island. In case of an emergency the project satellite phone would be used to contact
emergency services. Contact and search and rescue (SAR) plans are lodged with the police
centers in Cooktown (for Teams I and II) and on Thursday Island (for Teams III and IV). In case
of a medical emergency, this is the coordinating body that would respond to the request for
assistance. Any medical situation arising at either of the study sites would be assessed and in an
extreme emergency the Bell Jet Ranger helicopter would be dispatched. For less urgent situations,
the police, Navy or customs vessel would be dispatched. Note that weather and aircraft
availability could delay response time.
Staff Certified
in Safety Training
Nearest Hospital for
Teams I and II
Nearest Hospital for
Teams III and IV
All research staff are certified in Remote First Aid and CPR
(Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).
Cooktown Hospital
Hope Street
Cooktown, Queensland 4871
Tel: +61 (0)7 4069 5433
Distance: About 120 km/75 mi from Ingram Island
Time to reach: 1 hour by helicopter, 6 hours by sea vessel
Thursday Island Hospital
Victoria Pde
Thursday Island, Queensland 4875
Torres Strait
Tel: +61 (0)7 4069 1109
Distance: About 80 km/50 mi from Milman Island
Time to reach: 40 minutes by helicopter, 3 hours by sea vessel
Teams III and IV: Contingency Plans in the Event of a Cyclone
Teams III and IV will visit Queensland during the cyclone season. Prior to arriving on the island,
contact will be established with the police on Thursday Island informing them that the team will
be on the island and the duration of the stay. In the event of a cyclone warning being declared
over the far northern section of the marine park, contact will be made with police and
arrangements will be made to evacuate. This is likely to be effected via a range of methods,
including the Bell Jet Ranger helicopter, the 60-meter/200-foot Customs vessel, the water police
or the Navy vessel, all of which are based on Thursday Island.
22
15. HELPFUL RESOURCES
Turtle Websites
•
•
•
•
•
Greater Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority: http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au
Environmental Protection Agency website on turtles: http://www.env.qld.gov.au
Department of the Environment and Heritage website on turtles:
http://www.deh.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/index.html
Euroturtle: http://www.euroturtle.org
Sea Turtle: http://www.seaturtle.org
Passport and Visa Information
•
•
•
•
•
Embassies around the world: http://www.embassyworld.com
For Japanese citizens: http://www.rainbowt.jp/travel/visa_top.html
Passport Visa Express (for US citizens): http://www.passportvisaexpress.com
The Visaservice: http://www.visaservice.co.uk
Thames Consular Services Ltd: http://www.visapassport.com
Travel Guidebooks and Booksellers
•
•
•
•
Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Rough Guide: http://travel.roughguides.com
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com
Barnes and Noble: http://www.bn.com
Travel Agencies and Advice
•
•
•
•
•
•
Esplanade Tours (specializes in Australia): http://esplanadetours.com
160 Commonwealth Ave Suite L3
Boston, MA 02116 USA
Tel: 617-266-7465
Toll free in the US: 1-800-426-5492 or 1-800-628-4893
Fax: 617-262-9829
Email: [email protected]
STA Travel (contact Angie Kurtz or Chris Chappell and mention that you will be going on an
Earthwatch Expedition): http://www.statravel.com
36 Geary Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
Tel: +1 415 391-8407
Email: [email protected]
STA Travel (UK): http://www.statravel.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 792800
Fax: +44 (0) 1865 792911
Email: [email protected]
Quote code: EWE01/02
Wexas International (Europe): http://www.wexas.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7581 8761
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7581 7679
Email: [email protected]
Quote code: EWE01/02
World Travel Guide: http://www.worldtravelguide.com
UK Foreign Office travel advice: http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel
23
Airline/Airport Resources
•
•
Flight comparison tools: http://www.bookingbuddy.com and http://www.1800-fly.com
Airport codes worldwide: http://www.logisticsworld.com/airports.asp
Country Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Country information from around the world: http://www.countryreports.org
National Geographic Map Machine: http://plasma.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine
US State Department: http://www.state.gov
Time worldwide with GMT/UTC: http://www.worldtimeserver.com
Currency converter: http://www.xe.com
Electrical current converter: http://kropla.com/electric2.htm
Telephone dialing codes: http://kropla.com/dialcode.htm
Online unit conversions: http://www.onlineconversion.com
Worldwide weather: http://www.wunderground.com or http://www.tutiempo.net/en
ATM locator: http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp or
http://www.mastercard.com/atmlocator/index.jsp
Health Information
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Travel health website: http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov
Tel: +1 800 311-3435 or +1 888 232-3228
World Health Organization: http://www.who.int
The Travel Doctor: http://www.tmvc.com.au
Disease outbreaks: http://www.who.int/csr/don/en
Hospital for Tropical Diseases: http://www.thehtd.org
Travellers Healthline Advisory Service
Tel: 020 7950 7799
MASTA Travelers’ Healthline (UK)
Tel: 0906 8 224100 (within UK)
24
APPENDIX
HAWKSBILL TURTLES OF THE GREAT BARRIER REEF:
THE RESEARCH
The following information was taken from the research proposal submitted by the Principal
Investigator to Earthwatch Institute. Included is a description of the research conducted through
this project, some results to date, and other information regarding the accomplishments of the
project and the staff. Specific details regarding research sites, methods, etc. is subject to change
slightly from year to year and such changes may not be incorporated into this document.
BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES, AND METHODS
Background
Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) populations have been severely depleted in most
countries as a result of excessive harvesting for the thick keratinous scutes (plates) of the carapace
(top shell) and plastron (bottom shell), which are fashioned into jewelry and curios in the
Japanese bekko industry (Limpus and Miller 1990). Additionally, unsustainable hunting by
indigenous people, over-harvesting of eggs, certain fishing practices and alteration to nesting and
foraging habitat have contributed to population decline. Regional and international concern
about population status is reflected in their classification as a “Vulnerable” species under
Queensland conservation legislation and as a “Critically Endangered” species under IUCN
conservation guidelines.
This project aims to build on existing knowledge of the population demographics of marine
turtles in the far northern section of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The project will
determine population trends and threats to the populations to develop sound conservation
management strategies, from both a regional and international perspective.
The project is comprised of two distinct aspects that are designed to provide an understanding of
hawksbill life history and population trends: 1) understanding the population dynamics in a
foraging ground, and 2) the continuation of monitoring the nesting biology.
Foraging Area Population Dynamics (Ingram Island, Howick Island Group)
The Howick Group of islands, which lies adjacent to Lizard Island in the northern Great Barrier
Reef, support one of the largest concentrated aggregations of foraging hawksbill turtles on the
Great Barrier Reef (Limpus and Miller 2000) and possibly the world. A two-year pilot study to
determine the demographics of the marine turtle species resident within the Howick Group was
completed in 2000 (Limpus and Miller 2000). Several of the turtles captured and tagged during
this study had made long distance migrations to neighboring countries (see Figure 1). All of these
tag returns came from hawksbills that were harvested by traditional hunters, indicating that
these turtle stocks are shared between neighboring countries. The cumulative impact of
harvesting by traditional hunters in Australia and these countries is just one of the many issues of
particular concern to wildlife managers in Queensland.
25
While the pilot study demonstrated the importance of the Howick Group of islands for foraging
hawksbill turtles, a long-term demographic study is required to provide more accurate
information on the turtle populations present and to assess whether this population is declining.
Intensive surveys at the Howick Group foraging ground will provide data on reproductive
behavior and environmental influences; sex and age class-specific population abundance
estimates for foraging populations comprising the northern GBR metapopulation; sex and ageclass-specific survival; reproductive status within a foraging area; recruitment of juvenile, subadult and adult turtles to the foraging population; and sex-specific fluctuations in growth rates
and aging.
Figure 1: Migration by adult hawksbill turtles in the Coral Sea Region of the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
These data include the new recaptures reported in the present study and those previously reported (Miller et al.
1998). The lines are not intended to describe precise migration routes but link the feeding sites to the associated
respective breeding sites.
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QUEENSLAND
300
0
300
600 K ilo m eter s
Nesting Biology (Milman Island)
A 10-year population biology study on Milman Island between 1990 and 2000 identified two
factors that are of concern to wildlife managers: 1) a four-percent rate of decline in the nesting
population, and 2) an over 20-percent proportion of first-time breeding females arriving annually
on the island (Loop et al. 1995, Limpus and Miller 2000). These are clear warning signals of a
significant conservation management problem for the North Queensland E. imbricata nesting
population.
While the general reproductive biology of hawksbill turtles on Milman Island has been studied, it
is essential that baseline data collection be continued to determine if these trends are continuing,
particularly in the context of ongoing global threats, such as degradation of nesting sites,
exploitation of eggs, and killing of adults for meat and/or shell (Groombridge and Luxmoore
1989, Loop et al. 1995, Dobbs et al. 1999). While previous studies (Loop et al. 1995, Limpus 1997)
have provided a significant baseline, only a long-term population study can provide the
information necessary for effective conservation management of hawksbill turtles on the Great
Barrier Reef.
26
Research Objectives
The most cost-effective method for quantifying sex and age class parameters for a marine turtle
species is to select representative populations for long-term mark and recapture studies at index
locations. This study will collect this information and develop population models.
Marine turtles range widely and may travel great distances during their lives. Consequently, they
may be exposed to a number of impacts that could, individually or cumulatively, endanger them.
Some of these threats include commercial gill netting, boat traffic, pollution, coastal development,
international over-exploitation, shark netting operations, habitat degradation, commercial
trawling, illegal take, and disturbance of turtle nesting sites. Natural impacts include tropical
cyclones, floods, storms and predators. Throughout the South Pacific, there have been ongoing
concerns that current hunting rates are likely to be unsustainable (Limpus and Chaloupka 2001).
For turtle populations to exist in a healthy state, these impacts must be effectively identified,
managed, and where necessary, prevented altogether.
To meet the project’s first objective of collecting population data on foraging turtles, annual
foraging surveys will quantify the size and structure of the foraging population, the reproductive
status of hawksbill turtles within a foraging area and the recruitment of juvenile, sub-adult and
adult turtles to the population, while determining growth rates and age to maturity and
describing the foraging environment.
Our second objective is to collect nesting biology data. To do this, annual nesting surveys will
quantify and monitor trends in the size of the annual hawksbill turtle nesting population,
determine if there is a change in the remigration interval of the population, quantify and monitor
trends in the recruitment, monitor trends in the nesting environment, quantify nesting turtle
fecundity (clutch size, egg measurements, clutches per season and hatchling success), determine
the hatchling recruitment, and determine growth rates and age to maturity.
The project also aims to collaborate with indigenous turtle hunting communities. Where possible,
Torres Strait islanders and Aboriginals will be encouraged to become involved in the field data
collection as Earthwatch research fellows. In addition, the project hopes to undertake programs
aimed at Traditional Owner capacity building in research, monitoring and data collection
techniques; provide opportunities for Traditional Owner Elders and younger hunters to share
time together on traditional sea country, to discuss and reinstate traditional hunting methods;
and provide an opportunity for Elders and local hunters to better understand sea turtle
population dynamics, traditional significance and local sea turtle population status in an onsite
field environment.
Research Methods
Within this study the standard methodology used in previous Queensland Turtle Conservation
Project (QTC) studies of marine turtles will be followed. Refer to Limpus et al. (1983), Miller
(1985), Limpus and Reed (1985a), Limpus (1992a), Loop et al. (1995) and Dobbs et al. (1999) for
additional information. Volunteers should note that not all procedures described below will be
carried out on both surveys, unless otherwise noted.
Tagging
All turtles will be tagged with self-locking standard titanium turtle tags. The tags are applied in
the axillary tagging position of the front flipper (Limpus 1992b). The axillary tagging position is
through or immediately adjacent to the enlarged scale closest to the body on the posterior edge of
the left and right front flippers. If the animal is already carrying tags, the condition of the tag(s) will
27
be assessed and a decision made on whether to add another tag(s) to the turtle. Each turtle will be
released with a minimum of two securely attached titanium tags, one in each front flipper.
Turtle Measurements
On foraging and nesting surveys a selection of the following measurements will be taken (see
Limpus et al. 1983).
Curved carapace (top shell) measurements will be taken using a flexible fiberglass tape measure
laid over the curve of the carapace. Calibration of fiberglass tape measures will be checked
regularly against steel rules. Any large barnacles on the carapace likely to interfere with a
measurement will be removed. Curved carapace length (CCL) is measured along the midline axis
from the junction of the skin and carapace above the neck to the V of the notch in the rear of the
carapace. Curved carapace width (CCW) is the maximum width of the shell measured across the
carapace. For turtles whose carapace is curved upwards near the edges, the measurement will be
made with the tape measure stretched tightly between the edges (i.e. not always in contact with the
surface of the carapace for the full width).
Head measurements will be taken using stainless steel vernier slide calipers. With large turtles it is
necessary to support the turtle vertically (balanced on the posterior of its carapace) and deflect the
head forwards to enable head measurements to be taken. Head measurements are only taken on
foraging surveys. Head length (HL) is measured from the front tip of the upper beak to the
projection at the back of the skull, keeping the arm of the calipers parallel to the top surface of the
skull. Head width (HW) is the maximum width across the skull measured at the quadrate bones.
Plastron (lower shell) length (PL) is measured using a flexible tape measure along the midline from
the junction of the skin and plastron near the neck, to the rear margin of the plastron.
Tail measurements are taken to the tip of the straightened tail using a steel tape measure. Tail
length from plastron (TLP) is measured from the back of the plastron to the tip of the tail. Tail
length from carapace (TLC) is measured from the V of the notch in the carapace to the tip of the tail.
A negative sign for this measurement indicates a distance short of the carapace margin. Tail length
from vent (TLV) is measured from the front of the vent. Tail length from plastron to vent (LPV) is
calculated as the difference between tail length to plastron and tail length to vent.
Hatchling straight-line measurements are taken similarly to those for the larger turtles but are
measured with vernier calipers.
Turtles are weighed by turning them on their backs and lifting via a spring balance attached by four
ropes, each noosed to the base of a flipper or by a continuous figure-eight strap. The turtles are
weighed on spring scales. Hatchlings are weighed with a spring balance.
Laparoscopy and Gonad Interpretation
Laparoscopies will be carried out on both foraging and nesting surveys. Because most immature
male turtles cannot be distinguished from females using external sexual characteristics, turtles are
sexed by visual examination of the gonad and associated ducts using a laparoscope (Limpus 1992a,
Limpus et al. 1994a,b). Laparoscopic examination of turtles has been used in the project since 1982.
This procedure has been shown to have no lasting impact on the turtles, either individually or as
a population. While there is no textbook on turtle laparoscopy, the following references describe
the procedures we have used: Limpus and Reed (1985b), Limpus (1992b), and Limpus et al.
(1994a,b). Full Queensland Parks and Wildlife Animal Ethics Committee approval has been
granted for this procedure.
28
Prior to the surgical procedure the area is sterilized and a local anesthetic is administered. The
cannula is inserted through the right groin next to the right hind flipper. To facilitate the insertion
of the cannula, a small incision is made in the skin with a scalpel. Passage of the cannula through
the underlying muscle and connective tissue and penetration of the peritoneum is facilitated with a
trochar supplied with the cannula. On removal of the cannula, the skin incision is closed with a
water-soluble suture. The instruments are maintained in a 70-percent ethanol bath in preparation
for and following each surgical examination and are scrubbed and boiled on a regular basis.
Within this study, a turtle is defined as mature (adult) if its gonads and associated ducts are fully
developed; it does not imply that the turtle has already bred; only that it is structurally capable of
breeding.
Foraging Surveys
Turtles will be captured as they are encountered during systematic searches of the various reef flat
habitats. Turtles are captured using the turtle rodeo and beach jump capture methods (see Limpus
1992a for more details). The beach jump capture method is used only adjacent to the islands and is
attempted at low tide in shallow tidal pools on the reef flat.
Following their capture, most turtles are landed on a nearby island for weighing, measuring and
laparoscopic examination. They are released from the island or boat usually within two hours of
being brought ashore. The remainder are released where captured, usually within 10 minutes of
capture, after having been tagged and measured.
We will be using two custom built turtle research vessels while undertaking foraging surveys.
Both are constructed from marine grade aluminum to withstand rigors of turtle research,
including unexpected groundings in a coral reef environment. Each is powered by a four-stroke
50 hp engine. Vessels are inspected annually by Marine Board inspectors. Skippers hold
commercial vessel operating certificates. Each vessel carries a full compliment of safety
equipment including flares, v-sheets, EPIRBs, lifejackets, oars, anchor, VHF radio and a satellite
phone.
Nesting Surveys
Recruitment rates and remigration and renesting intervals must be determined for nesting
turtles. The recruitment rate is the percentage of nesting female turtles that are breeding for the first
time in their life. This is determined via laparoscopic examination of gonads after completion of
laying. The remigration interval is the time between breeding seasons for an individual female,
measured in whole years. The renesting interval is the number of days from when a turtle lays a
clutch of eggs to when she emerges again on the island to crawl into the nesting habitat (Limpus et
al. 1985). It is assumed that if all conditions are right, the turtle would lay during that nesting crawl.
If a turtle emerges but does not lay eggs, a disturbance factor is identified (e.g. beach-rock cliff,
lightning, tree roots, damaged hind flippers, sand too dry).
To study eggs and hatchling production, the clutch count and egg types must be determined and the
eggs must be measured. The clutch count is the number of yolked, shelled eggs in a normal
undisturbed nesting. A turtle disturbed while laying may cease laying and return to the sea only to
return later the same night or on a subsequent night to lay the remainder of the eggs she is carrying
in her oviducts. The sum of these two partial clutches is counted as the clutch count for the laiddisturbed nesting sequence. Yolkless eggs are not included in the clutch count. A yolkless egg is a
shelled lump of albumen sometimes surrounding fragments of yolk that are not enclosed by a
vitelline membrane (Miller 1985). No embryonic structure or nucleus, fertilized or otherwise, is
associated with the yolkless egg. A multi-yolked egg is an egg with more than one yolk, each with its
respective embryonic structure within the one enclosing shell. Each is counted as a single egg
29
irrespective of the number of yolks that each egg contains. To take egg measurements in selected
clutches, 10 eggs per clutch are cleaned of sand, measured, and weighed within an hour of laying.
The clutch egg diameter and weight are obtained by averaging the values obtained for individual
eggs laid. Minimum and maximum diameters are taken on each egg with stainless steel vernier
calipers. The average of the minimum and maximum diameters is used as the diameter of the egg
(Limpus and Reed 1985a). Eggs are weighed in a plastic bag with a Pesola spring balance.
Excavating the nest following hatchling emergence assesses incubation success for each clutch by
counting the eggs and egg shells remaining, under the following categories:
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•
•
•
•
•
•
Shells (hatched eggs): Count of empty egg shells which are at least a half or greater intact, left
in nest chamber
Live-in-nest hatchling: Live hatchling remaining among the empty shells in the nest, or a
hatchling trapped in grass roots or other obstruction in the neck of the egg chamber
Dead-in-nest hatchling: Dead hatchling (out of its egg shell) found within the nest
Undeveloped egg: Unhatched egg with no obvious embryo
Unhatched egg: Egg with obvious embryo that has not yet hatched
Predated egg: Empty nearly-complete egg shell opened by crabs or other predator
Emerged hatchlings: Number of shells minus live-in-nest and dead-in-nest
Hatching success is calculated as the number of hatchlings that hatched from the egg shell divided
by the total number of yolked eggs laid in the clutch. This value includes live and dead hatchlings
found emerged from the egg shell but still in the egg chamber. Emergence success is calculated as
the number of hatchlings that successfully emerged from the egg chamber divided by the total
number of yolked eggs laid in the clutch. This value does not include live and dead hatchlings found
in the egg chamber when excavated.
Nest depth is measured from the beach surface using a flexible tape measure. Both the top egg in the
egg chamber and the bottom of the chamber once the eggs have been removed for counting are
measured. The environment above the egg chamber will be categorized as being bare sand, grass or
shrub/tree in order to study the nesting habitat. The location of the egg chamber will be classified as
being below high water (if it is below the level of the spring high-tide line), below the slope of the
dune, or on top of/behind the top of the dune. Sand temperatures are recorded by placing a NATA
certified thermometer into the side of the egg chamber at the bottom depth once all the eggs have
been removed.
To study nesting beach parameters, the beach at Milman Island is subdivided into numbered sectors
around the perimeter of the island. Numbered posts placed at 50 meter intervals define each sector.
The sector number is recorded whenever a nesting turtle is encountered. Nest site fidelity is
calculated as the distance between sectors for turtles nesting more than once.
Past research with loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) and green turtle (Chelonia mydas) nesting
populations in the southern GBR has indicated that the results of counts of nesting females at a
rookery at a standard period during the peak of the nesting season are a good index of the size of
the annual nesting population (Limpus and Reed 1985a, unpublished QTC data). The census period
is best if it encompasses at least one renesting interval.
The one-month period, approximately mid-January to mid-February, has been surveyed by tagging
census at Milman Island since the study’s inception. This period, which encompasses
approximately two renesting intervals and occurs within the peak period of nesting, has therefore
been chosen as the standard census period for this population. The standard census will be the
count of tagged nesting turtles recorded during this census period.
30
Turtle Database
Data gathered from each turtle and for each capture will be summarized into the QPWS Turtle
Research database. Data is collated to the files using customized data entry programs. All original
datasheets are retained as backup copies of the data. In addition, once the files have been
validated for correct entry of the data, backup copies of all data files are appended to the master
files, which are maintained on several computers. A dictionary of defined codes used in the
summarizing of data on the computer files is maintained for the project.
RESULTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
The sea turtle program of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is the most comprehensive
long-term program studying sea turtle demography in the world. The program provides
substantial data sets on key aspects of sea turtle demography essential for developing agestructured and sex-specific simulation models with some explicit spatial structure. It is
anticipated that data collected from this project will contribute to the development of a model
that would be suitable for helping to design conservation policies and strategies appropriate for
addressing the potential impact of harvesting and other competing mortality risks on the longterm viability of the population. Model design will follow previous work by Chaloupka (1997).
An annual Field Report on the progress of this research project is collated and presented to
Earthwatch, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Authority each year. Regular meetings will be convened between QPWS and GBRMPA to discuss
project progression and outcomes. The progress of the research will be regularly presented to the
Queensland public via articles in the local newspaper and interviews through local radio stations.
The results of the research will be made widely available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
peoples in an accessible format and through community meetings and posters. Research findings
will also be published in international scientific journals.
LITERATURE CITED
Australian Littoral Society. 1990. Great Barrier Reef Island Resource Inventory- Far Northern Region.
Australian Littoral Society Inc., Brisbane.
Bell, I.P., Miller, J.D., Dobbs, K.A., Limpus, C.J. 1998. “Hawksbill turtle movements in the Coral
Sea.” In Abreu-Grobois, F.A., Briseno-Duenas, R., Marquez, R. Sarti, L. (eds.) Proceedings of the
Eighteenth International Sea Turtle Symposium. US Department of Commerce. NOAA Technical
Memorandum NMFS-SEFSC-436: 95.
Chaloupka, M. 1997. “Robust statistical modeling of hawksbill sea turtle growth rates (Southern
Great Barrier Reef).” Marine Ecology Progress Series, 146: 1-8.
Dobbs, K.A., Miller, J.D., Card, M.A., Mather, M., Haselmayer, J. 1997. “Birds of Milman Island.”
Corella 21 37-43.
Dobbs, K.A., Miller, J. D., Limpus, C.J., Landry, A.M. Jr. 1999. “Hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys
imbricata, nesting at Milman Island, Northern Great Barrier Reef, Australia.” Chelonian
Conservation and Biology 3 (2): 344-361.
Groombridge, B., Luxmoore, R. 1989. “The Green Turtle and Hawksbill (Reptilia: Cheloniidae):
World Status, Exploitation and Trade.” Convention on the International Trade in Endangered
Species. Lausanne.
Limpus, C.J. 1997. “Marine turtles of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.” Great Barrier
Reef Marine Park Authority Workshop Series 23: 256-258.
Limpus, C.J. 1992a. “Estimation of tags loss in marine turtle research.” Wildlife Research. 19: 457469.
Limpus, C.J. 1992b. “The hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, in Queensland: population
structure within a southern Great Barrier Reef feeding ground.” Wildlife Research 19: 489-506.
31
Limpus, C.J, Chaloupka, M. 2001. “Trends in the abundance of sea turtles resident in southern
Great Barrier Reef waters.” Biological Conservation 102 (3):235-249.
Limpus, C.J., Miller, J.D. 1990. “The Use of Measured Scutes of Hawksbill Turtles, Eretmochelys
imbricata, in the Management of the Tortoiseshell (Bekko) Trade.” Australian Wildlife Research
17 (6): 633-639.
Limpus, C.J., Miller J.D. 2000. “Final Report for the Australian Hawksbill Turtle Population
Dynamics Project.” Internal Report by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to the Japan Bekko
Association. Brisbane. 147 pp.
Limpus, C.J., Reed, P.C. 1985a. “The loggerhead turtle, Caretta caretta, in Queensland:
Observations on internesting behaviour.” Australian Wildlife Research. 12: 535-540.
Limpus, C.J., Reed, P.C. 1985b. “The green turtle, Chelonia mydas, in Queensland: a preliminary
description of population structure in a coral reef feeding ground.” In Grigg, G,. Shine, R.,
Ehmann, H. (eds) Biology of Australasian frogs and reptiles. Surrey Beatty & Sons, NSW. pp.4752.
Limpus, C.J., Couper, Read, M.A. 1994a. “The green turtle, Chelonia mydas, in Queensland:
population structure in a warm temperate feeding area.” Memoirs Queensland Museum 35,139154.
Limpus, C.J., Couper, Read, M.A. 1994b. “The loggerhead turtle, Caretta caretta, in Queensland:
population structure in a warm temperate feeding area.” Memoirs Queensland Museum 37,195204.
Limpus, C.J., Miller, J.D., Baker, V., McLachan, E. 1983. “The hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys
imbricata, (L.), in North-Eastern Australia: the Campbell Island Rookery.” Australian Wildlife
Research 10: 185-197.
Limpus, C.J., Reed, P.C. Miller, J.D. 1985. “Temperature dependent sex determination in
Queensland sea turtles: intraspecific variation in Caretta caretta.” In Grigg, G., Shine, R.,
Ehmann, H. (eds.) Biology of Australasian frogs and reptiles. Surrey Beatty & Sons, NSW.
Loop, K.A. 1996. Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) nesting at Milman Island, Queensland,
Australia. Unpublished Ph.D. Dissertation, Texas A&M University, College Station.
Loop, K.A., Miller, J.D., Limpus, C.J. 1995. “Nesting by the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochlys
imbricata) on Milman Island Reef, Australia.” Wildlife Research, 22: 241-252.
Loop, K.A., Miller, J.D., Card, M.A., Mather, M., Haselmayer, J. 1996a. “Seabird Islands No. 230.
Milman Island, Northern Great Barrier Reef.” Corella 20 104-106.
Loop, K.A., Miller, J.D., Pollard, D.A. 1996b. “Observations of the Amethyst Python (Morelia
amethystina) feeding on Rainbow Bee-eaters (Merops ornatus).” Memoirs of the Queensland
Museum 39, 504.
Miller, J.D. 1985. “Embryology of marine turtles.” In Gans, C., Billett, F., Maderson, P.F.A. (eds.)
Biology of the Reptilla. Academic Press, New York. Vol. 14: 269-328.
Miller, J.D., Bell, I.P. 1997. “Crocodiles in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.” In
Wachenfeld, D., Oliver, J., Davis, K. (eds) State of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.
Proceedings of a technical workshop held in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, 27-29
November 1995. Workshop Series No. 23, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority,
Townsville. Pp.248-255.
Miller, J.D., Dobbs, K.A., Limpus, C.J., Mattocks, N., Landry, A.M. 1998. “Long-distance
migrations by the hawksbill turtle, Eretmochelys imbricata, from north-eastern Australia.”
Wildlife Research 25: 89-95.
Miller, J.D., Limpus, C.J., Bell, I.P. 2001. “Nesting biology of Eretmochelys imbricata in the northern
Great Barrier Reef.” In Limpus, C.J., Miller, J.D. (eds) Final Report for the Australian Hawksbill
Turtle Population Dynamics Project. Report to the Japan Bekko Association and Queensland
Department of the Environmental Protection Agency. Chapter 5. Pp 38-80.
32
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST
Note: See Section 12 ‘Packing Considerations’ for more information on what to bring with you on
your expedition.
Essential Items
This Expedition Briefing
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
Passport and/or visa (if necessary)
Certification of inoculation (if necessary)
Required Items
Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork
At least two lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts and/or a Lycra (Stinger) sun suit
At least two pairs of lightweight, quick-drying shorts and/or long pants (for protection from
insects)
Swimsuit(s)
T-shirts
Wetsuit-type dive booties (thick booties are especially important for Teams I and II)
Sandshoes (these can replace the booties for Teams III and IV, though either is fine)
Broad-brimmed hat with a chin strap to protect you from the sun
Sweatshirt and sweatpants for cooler nights (may not be necessary for Teams III and IV)
Windproof, waterproof, lightweight rain jacket
Several changes of underwear (laundry facilities are meager)
Sarong or similar cover-up
Teams I and II ONLY: 3-4 millimeter Farmer John-style wetsuit with a detachable jacket (if
this is not available any long-sleeved and long-legged suit will work, but very thick wetsuits
[over 6 millimeters] will be too hot/bulky)
Clothing/Footwear for Leisure
One set of clothing to keep clean for the boat trip home at the end of the expedition
Flip-flops or sneakers for everyday wear around camp (it is not recommended that you
spend all day in wetsuit boots)
Field Supplies
Two water bottles able to hold at least one liter each
Inexpensive, waterproof watch that can withstand some pounding by turtles
Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Small daypack/rucksack (you can use this as your carry-on bag on the plane and boat)
33
Drybag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) for protecting equipment such as camera from
humidity and water
Two pairs of sunglasses
Bedding and Bathing
Note: Please advise your Earthwatch contact person if you would like to have a tent provided or
if you plan to bring your own tent. If sufficient notice is given, volunteers can be provided with a
cozy two-person tent (with just one volunteer per tent) and inflatable air bed.
Your own small (two-person) tent with good ventilation
Sheets or lightweight sleep sack
Thin blankets or a sleeping bag (may not be necessary for Teams III and IV)
Sleeping pad (e.g. Thermarest) if you don’t want to use an inflatable mattress
Pillow
Towel(s)
Personal Supplies
Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are necessary for ocean bathing)
Antibacterial wipes or lotion for “washing” hands while in the field
Personal medications (the project supplies several comprehensive First Aid kits, but you may
wish to bring seasickness medications, ear infection drops and/or anti-fungal cream;
additionally, females should be aware that frequent salt-water immersion is conducive to
genital infections and therefore should take sufficient personal sanitary supplies and a
familiar anti-infection and pain-relieving medication)
The project will supply sunscreen, but if you prefer a certain brand bring lotion with SPF 30
or higher
The project will supply insect repellent, but if you have your own or react badly to bites and
require any special medication, you should bring this also
Miscellaneous
Spending money, credit cards or traveler’s checks for use in Cairns (it is always useful to have a
small amount of cash, such as AU$100)
Camera, film/digital memory storage, extra camera battery, etc.
Positive attitude and sense of humor!
Optional Items
Any special foods or dietary requirements
Multi-vitamin
Hammock if you have one
Binoculars
Snorkeling gear
Books, games, Walkman, iPod, etc. for passing the recreational time
Earplugs
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