Hatchlings!!!!

While on Curieuse, one of our jobs was to go on "wurtles" or turtle walks to look for turtle nests along the beach. I was hoping to see a turtle actually nesting, as I saw a handful of turtles on Bird Island either coming up out of the ocean to nest, or returning to the ocean but never actually laying their eggs. I didn't see that on Curiese either - I saw something even better - hawksbill hatchlings!!  I happened to be walking past a nest at the exact right time and saw a bunch of tiny little turtles rushing across the beach straight to the ocean. I might have started screaming and jumping up and down until the other two GVI gals came over to see (don't worry, I didn't step on any). I have never seen so many adorable little creatures move SO FAST across a beach - it was truly amazing to watch. We got to see them peeking their heads out of the sand for the very first time and head out across the sand and rocks to the ocean. Some fell over on their backs, some started out going the wrong way, a couple were taken by crabs sadly, but the majority made it to the ocean to start their life out at sea (if they didn't get eaten by a bird) that is). It was definitely one of the most amazing things I have ever witnessed in my life.

crawling out of the nest

falling over (don't worry, he got back up)

tired little guy