Tour de Turtles returns to Vero Beach on July 29
The Tour de Turtles returns to Disney’s Vero Beach for its 16th annual event on Saturday, July 29. The captivating race, organized the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC), sets out to track the incredible migration journeys of sea turtles.
Equipped with state-of-the-art satellite transmitters, the participating turtles become the focus of a unique and heartwarming competition. Researchers, as well as the general public, can follow their progress in real-time as they embark on their epic voyages across the ocean.
The Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) and Disney Cruise Line are each sponsoring a turtle this year, whose names, Madame Leota and Harriet, are inspired by the live-action film “Haunted Mansion.”
The data collected during Tour de Turtles helps researchers, conservationists and governing agencies make more informed decisions about sea turtle conservation methods and policies across Florida.
Disney’s commitment to sea turtle conservation is evident in their diligent surveying efforts along a five-mile stretch of beach in Indian River County. The team’s dedication has been fruitful, as they have recorded an impressive 2,000 sea turtle nests so far, surpassing previous averages.
A visit to Vero Beach during the release of the turtles is fun. A crowd gathers around the beach as the two turtles walk down the beach to the water.
