May
20
23
Theme: Sea Turtles
Natural Area: Munyon Island
The Island was originally called Nuctsachoo by the Seminoles, which means Pelican Island, and it reportedly supported one of the largest wading bird rookeries in South Florida.
Kayakers frequent the shallow estuary. Wildlife on and around Munyon Island includes blue sea grass, great blue herons and little blue herons. The waters contain mojarras, sardines, mullet, pinfish and snapper.
Kayak rentals are available for those who don’t have their own equipment. The island, which is accessible only by boat, has no restrooms. It does offer covered picnic areas and grills.” -source: https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/munyon-island
“The Northern Lagoon is a regionally important nursery area for juvenile Green Sea Turtles, with an average density of 37.4 turtles/km2. This is a markedly greater abundance than the Indian River Lagoon, Florida Keys, or nearshore reefs in Palm Beach County.” – Lake Worth Lagoon Management Plan 2021 (pbcgov.org) page 20
Historic Watershed Fact
Unlike sea turtles, the Gopher Tortoise cannot swim and lives in burrows they have dug with their thick legs. They live in the scrub habitat and provide housing to numerous other species. Scientists call the Gopher Tortoise a keystone animal because without the Gopher Tortoise many species would not survive.
Writing Prompt
Over time, turtles have adapted to many different kinds of habitats. In what ways do you adapt to new environments?
Tip for Stewardship
Bring an empty bag with you when you visit the beach and fill it with trash to help clean up each time you visit. To learn more about the types and impacts of the litter on our beaches, visit https://oceanconservancy.org/blog/2017/06/08/ocean-trash-numbers/