Monday, August 31, 2009

Monday’s excavation team was eager to go, as they were due to dig up the nest of a hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) that was originally worked by scholar, Sarah Durose last phase. Excavations are carried out after the expected hatching time for the nest and data collected on the status and success of the clutch of eggs.

The team was even more thrilled to find a live hawksbill hatchling that had been trapped in the egg chamber before the teams arrival due to the debris of egg shells left behind by its brothers and sisters. When digging down to find the egg chamber, the sand removed is placed to the side and checked through by the team – normally in search for any signs of eggshell that indicate they are approaching the right depth.

This plucky little hatchling, dubbed “Chuck”, was scooped up in the sand and helped out of the nest. Dusted off and with the smell of the sea air in his face he quickly made he way to the sea to catch up with his siblings.

Scholar and Patrol Leader Sarah Durose was over the moon with the experience as she explained on return to base to everyone within earshot! “It was such a thrill to be able to witness the eggs being laid to seeing the final hatchling head towards its future!”
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