Walking the beaches for stranded sea turtles with MA Audubon at Wellfleet Bay

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On November 23, 2012 a number of NECWA staff members and volunteers helped MA Audubon at Wellfleet Bay walk Sandwich beaches that border Cape Cod Bay in hopes of finding stranded sea turtles. The day before, MA Audubon found 10 live sea turtle on these same beaches. 

Michael with one of the sea turtle carcasses. 
Participating in this rescue effort were NECWA staff members Patty, Tammy and Krill. Helping out were Michael and Jamie.  Our NECWA team coordinated efforts with Michael Sprague, staff member at MA Audubon. This team covered the beaches from the Cape Cod Canal to the west side of Sandy Neck, Barnstable. 

Krill picking up trash during the walk.
Unfortunately, only two sea turtles were found and both were dead. Michael Spragaue found both carcasses and took them back to Wellfleet Bay headquarters for processing. Both carcasses were Kemp's ridley sea turtles, the most endangered sea turtles in our area. 

Jamie helping look for sea turtles.
If you find a stranded sea turtle, please do not put it back in the water. These animals are cold-stunned and need medical assistance through rehab. Please call MA Audubon at Wellfleet Bay day or night. Call 508-349-2615 x104.

Given the high volume of trash on these beautiful beaches, NECWA will be conducting an informal beach cleanup next month. Hope you can join us. 

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