Recently the Jekyll Island Fire Department was able to help a wild Northern gannet that was found on Jekyll Island beach. These birds are pelagic which means they only live in the open ocean so when you find one on the beach something must be wrong.

The fire department rescued the gannet and brought the bird to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Unfortunately this type of bird does not do well in rehab and there are no bird rehab centers in Georgia to take them too. So a lot of shore birds and raptors come through our doors needing help. Many thanks to the Jekyll Island Fire Department not onlyare they saving humane lives but also aiding inthe lives of wildlife.

While the J.I.F.D.was at the center we gave them a behind the scenes tour of the hospital.

We are very grateful for their help and passion for helping humans and wildlife. Thanks!

~Michelle Kaylor
Aquarist II

This past Friday, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center partnered with the Georgia Psychological Association to host the first ever Run for the Sea Turtles 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run! Over 45 adults and children participated in the event. The 5K race course was quite a sight, guiding participants along the marsh side of the Jekyll Island Historic District shortly after sunrise.

Scute, the official GSTC mascot, made his first on-site appearance shortly before the race and was there to greet race goers as they crossed the finish line. Named for the keratin covering on the top of his shell, Scute (pronounced ‘scoot’) had quite a time showing off his scaly self.

The top three 5K finishers for men and women received GSTC prize packs and plush sea turtles were awarded to all 1 Mile Fun Run finishers.

All proceeds from the race went directly to support the Georgia Sea Turtle Center’s efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured sea turtles.

Overall, the event was a huge success! Thank you to the Georgia Psychological Association and to all who participated to help our sea turtles. We hope to see you again next year!

~Kelly O’Keefe

Educator & Event Coordinator