April 11 race supports sea turtle research as nesting season approaches

By Ned Steele

Gilly the shark, Floody the frog and the team at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium are working to protect the area’s sea turtles — and they are encouraging the public to help.

Gilly and Floody joined other mascots from local businesses and organizations last month in a lighthearted race to promote Mote’s annual Run for the Turtles, scheduled for April 11. The event supports the laboratory’s sea turtle conservation and research program, which works to protect and study the threatened animals and their hatchlings.

The 5K run will take place on Siesta Beach and is expected to draw 1,000 or more participants. Registration is open at mote.org, and a virtual run option is also available.

Sea turtle nesting season begins May 1 and continues through Oct. 31. During that time, Mote scientists monitor 35 miles of coastline, including Siesta Key, to protect nests and collect data that helps guide conservation efforts. Nesting turtles and hatchlings face threats from predators, artificial lighting and human interaction.

Sea turtles play a critical role as a keystone species, according to Mote scientist Jake Lasala. Without them, coastal ecosystems would see increases in crabs and jellyfish and a decline in seagrass.

Gilly and Floody showed their enthusiasm for sea turtles in their own nonverbal way. The mascot race winner, Marty the Pirate of the Bradenton Marauders baseball team, added to the excitement with a loud “Arrrr!” while encouraging the community to take part in the April 11 run.