The Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach is seeing a massive number in leatherback sea turtle nests along the beach. Sea Turtle Nesting Season starts in March and continues until the end of October. 

The nearly 10 mile stretch of beach that the sea turtle research and rehabilitation center monitor has counted to date 69 nests, which is significantly more than normal for this time of year.  Each nest usually contains roughly about 100 eggs that require 45 days to 60 days to hatch. 

Juno Beach is one of the largest sea turtle nesting locations in the world. The main reason why Juno Beach is the most populated sea turtle nesting location is because of the close proximity to the Gulf Stream current that bends towards Florida. 

Researchers believe that these high numbers so early on is a good sign that the turtles are healthy and with the abnormal weather and an increase in food consumption is early in the season may be helpful. 

Currently the Loggerhead Marinelife Center is closed but the center is offering free virtual activities and classes everyday. Join the center every weekday for their Virtual Coastal Classroom at 2 pm and on weekends at 11 am. To join in, click here.