March Madness takes on another meaning for Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) as sea turtle nesting season officially began on March 1st and runs through October 31. Sitting on one of the most densely populated sea turtle nesting beaches in the world, LMC has unique and distinct expertise in sea turtle and ocean conservation research.

For LMC, sea turtle nesting season began on Friday, February 28th, when a leatherback sea turtle laid the Center’s first nest of the 2020 season. During the 2019 nesting season, LMC researchers logged the following number of sea turtle nests on the Center’s 9.5-mile stretch of beach:

187 leatherback sea turtle nests

13,400 loggerhead sea turtle nests

7,411 green sea turtle nests

20,998 total nests in 2019

The numbers above reflect the significance of the 9.5-mile stretch of beach that’s annually monitored by LMC. The Center monitors and protects one of the most prominent sea turtle nesting sites on the planet. Caring for one of the most critical sea turtle nesting habitats mandates that our Center increase global awareness for sea turtle and ocean conservation.

At LMC, we research and conserve sea turtles because sea turtles serve as global ambassadors for ocean conservation. The sea turtle tells us the health of the ocean and the ocean tells us the health of our planet. We strongly believe in one ocean, one planet, one community vision, which we amplify through our apparel and retail items. Our online boutique serves as a platform to generate awareness and vital funds to protect sea turtles and increase the animals' survival rate.

To celebrate these special creatures, we've highlighted five of our favorite sea-turtle-inspired items. Whether you are shopping for a new hatchling or indulging in a personal present, our online boutique offers something for everyone. All purchases directly support our research, rehabilitation, conservation and education efforts.

1. Macrame Sea Turtle Bracelet: Treat yourself to some arm candy with the Macrame Sea Turtle Bracelet. Each bracelet features a sea turtle charm and two teal beads. Pair this sea turtle bracelet with other accessories, such as our other jewelry, for a marine-inspired look.

2.  Hibiscus Sea Turtle Wood Sticker: Give your personal belongings some oomph when you make a guilt-free purchase of our Hibiscus Sea Turtle Wood Sticker. Slab this sustainable punch-of-pink wooden sticker onto your car, laptop, cellphone, anywhere! The sticker is fully biodegradable to protect our ocean and marine life.

3. Honu Turtle Island Flask Tumbler: A hot accessory and the answer to reducing single-use plastic – Island Flask Tumblers. Stay hydrated in South Florida weather with beautiful flasks encapsulating sea turtles in bright blue and green hues. This is a purchase we can all get behind whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or homebody.

4. Raingear Sea Turtle Overdyed T-Shirt - Short Sleeve: Add a touch of pacific blue to your closest! Wear your support for the sea turtles proudly with this unisex shirt in a range of sizes. Made of 100% preshrunk cotton.

5. Advice From A Sea Turtle - Long Sleeve: Remind yourself to listen to our ancient global ambassadors, the sea turtle! Relax at the beach in a comfy, breathable long sleeve t-shirt as you remind yourself to be at ease in your own shell and swim with the current.