Obstacle course allows participants to get a feel for challenges of turtle life
By Meagan McGone
mmcgone@hometownnewsol.com
BREVARD -- Ever wonder what it's like to be a sea turtle?
Brevard County Parks and Recreation wants to help you find out.
On Saturday, Jan. 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., participants can don a turtle shell and prepare to lay some eggs at the Brevard County-sponsored "It's Tough To Be A Turtle Obstacle Course," which will be held at Riverwalk: A Family Park, 5355 U.S. 1, in Rockledge.
The program will be held in conjunction with the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival.
Brevard County is the host of many sea turtles during nesting season. In 2011, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported 22,871 loggerhead turtle nests, 7,513 green turtle nests and 101 leatherback turtle nests in Brevard County. All three species are endangered.
The program will show humans the challenges these turtles face, allowing them to strap on shells and make their migrations through the multitude of ocean obstacles, such as distracting lights.
In addition to vision disruption caused by artificial lighting, the animals also face other man-made threats: they are hunted, they face ocean pollution, and their nesting habitats are encroached upon by beach structures, such as condominiums and seawalls.
This activity aims to educate participants about these challenges. The obstacle course involves climbing, crawling, balance, and agility as participants move through Riverwalk Park grounds.
To register for this free event, or for more information, call (321) 433-4490.