Defense Date

12-2-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Science

Degree Name

Marine Science

First Advisor

Dr. Derek Burkholder

Second Advisor

Dr. Kristen Hart

Third Advisor

Dr. Rosanna Milligan

Keywords

Marine megafauna, Loggerhead, Green Turtles, Distance Sampling, Northwest Atlantic, Covariates

Abstract

The loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Chelonia mydas) turtle are two species of marine megafauna that have suffered abundance declines due to increased anthropogenic pressures. Assessing the distribution and abundance of sea turtles is essential for conserving and managing these imperiled species; however, assessing sea turtle populations poses difficulties due to the sea turtles’ highly migratory nature. Distance sampling surveys are extensively used to study populations of wide-ranging species. In this study, vessel-based line transect survey data collected throughout 2024 were used to estimate overall and seasonal sea turtle abundances and distribution throughout Biscayne National Park, FL. A total of 132 turtles were sighted within the park throughout the entirety of the year, with green turtles being the most abundant (n = 92). Turtles primarily utilized both eastern and western boundaries of the park and were most abundant during months corresponding to the sea turtle nesting season. The results of this study aim to aid park managers in designing management strategies that mitigate the overlap of sea turtle presence and anthropogenic activity.

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