Diamondback Terrapin Release!!

Jun 25, 2009

The National Marine Life Center released four headstart Diamondback Terrapins at Turtle Point, Lieutenant Island, Wellfleet, MA.  The tiny turtles weighed only 5.5 grams when they were brought to NMLC last October, after having hatched too late in the season to survive the winter in the wild.  Now an average of 56 grams – a ten-fold increase! – the turtles were eager to return home.

NMLC volunteers gather before release
NMLC volunteers gather before release
Volunteer Barb getting ready to release Mr. Green Jeans
Volunteer Barb getting ready to release Mr. Green Jeans
Volunteer Coordinator Jackie getting ready to release Blueberry
Volunteer Coordinator Jackie getting ready to release Blueberry
Volunteer Linda getting ready to release Brownie
Volunteer Linda getting ready to release Brownie
Volunteer Ashleigh getting ready to release Blackie!
Volunteer Ashleigh getting ready to release Blackie!
Released terrapins running under the "under brush" of the Salt Marsh! Go Terrapins Go!!
Released terrapins running under the "under brush" of the Salt Marsh! Go Terrapins Go!!

Thank you to all the volunteers and interns who helped to take care of these little guys!  Through your hard work and dedication, marine animals of all sizes have a second chance.