Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2005

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Wyneken, Jeanette

Abstract

Few studies document mortality rates for hatchling sea turtles during their migration away from the nesting beach. This study quantifies and compares nearshore predation rates on loggerhead hatchlings (Caretta caretta) at several locations in southern Florida. Hatchlings were followed by observers in kayaks during the first 15 min of the migration away from the beach. The overall observed predation rate (4.6%) is similar to a previous estimate (5%) from a natural high density Florida nesting beach, and lower than at a hatchery site. Predation rates were higher on Florida's southeast coast than the southwest coast. Predation increased towards the end of the hatching season. Results suggest that currently, hatchling mortality rates are relative low in Florida's shallow nearshore waters. Given the lack of growth by loggerhead populations, the cumulative mortality must be high after hatchlings depart shallow coastal waters.

Extent

52 p.

Comments

Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2005.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2005.

Identifier

FADT13259

Format

pdf

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