Summary
The hugely popular hit of 2016 returns with more space, more time, more eggs, more activities, more turtles… and a smack of jellyfish.
Under the watchful eye of Reptile Curator Patrick Couper, visitors will experience nature’s most valuable gift as Loggerhead Turtle hatchlings break free from their shells and take their first breath of air.
Following the World Science Festival Brisbane, the hatchling Loggerheads will be released 20km off the Mooloolaba coast where they will ride the Eastern Australian Current past the northern tip of New Zealand and on to the coasts of Chile and Peru.
The post-hatchling Flatbacks are being cared for at SEA LIFE Mooloolaba. When their shells are 15 cm long, they will be fitted with transmitters and released off the Bundaberg coast. This allows researchers to track the early life movements of Flatbacks and to assist with their conservation.
This free activity will be supported by Let’s Talk Turtles, the exciting drop-in space, Turtle Time, and a display of jellyfish to highlight the life-threatening impacts of human behaviour on turtle conservation.
FREE – NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED
Please be patient as we are expecting lengthy queues. This event will be complemented by a free craft activity close by the queuing area.
IMPORTANT VISITOR INFORATION: The Hatchery waiting line will close at 4:15pm today to ensure we can get everyone in the waiting line through the display before close. Due to the high level of visitors we are expecting, the Museum will stay open until 5:30pm
To ensure the welfare of the turtle hatchlings, The Hatchery Project was reviewed and approved by Queensland Museum’s Animal Ethics Committee. The policy, and information on how the committee makes decisions can be viewed online at the Queensland Museum’s website.
Bookings are NOT required for this event.