Winner of Great Turtle Race Announced!

You may recall that a few weeks ago I posted about the Great Turtle Race, which tracks Leatherback Sea Turtles as they head back to their Galapagos feeding grounds. Spectators have been traveling their progress online and today the winner was announced: Billie. I hope the others do well, especially the slow starters, Sunda and Drexelina. Check out their journeys at http://www.greatturtlerace.com.

The Great Turtle Race

Leatherback Sea Turtles are 100 million years old but their rapid decline indicates that their population may be extinct in as little as 10 yearts. In an effort to learn more about these rare animals and bring attention to the cause, scientists have outfitted 14 animals with satellite tags. The tags have provided researchers with valuable information and are now being used for a novel fundraising initiative.

On April 16th, the Great Turtle Race will begin as the leatherbacks head back to their Galapagos feeding grounds. Sponsor your favorite turtle and track its progress online. This great idea draws attention to the turtle’s plight, raises money and is lots of fun!

The event is being organized by Conservation International, the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment, the Leatherback Trust and the Tagging of Pacific Predators program. Proceeds will go to protect Cost Rica's Playa Grande who bring awareness to the challenges facing the survival of leatherback turtles.