During the second half, thousands of tiny hatchlings make a mad dash for the sea. Left completely alone, maybe one egg in 100 will produce a turtle that reaches maturity, Eells said. Some nests get washed out by high tides. Others are destroyed by coyotes, raccoons and wild hogs. Birds, crabs and fish like turtles, too.
Most hatchlings end up on the losing end of the food chain.
Some 25 certified patrollers take turns monitoring the beaches every morning between Indian Pass and St. Joe State Park, and between St. Joe Beach and Tyndall Air Force Base. We're just a small part,'' said patroller Carolyn Hooper. She and husband Joe moved to the cape three years ago. Last year they patrolled from Stumphole to the state park seven days a week during the season. This year they patrol Monday through Thursday.