The Leatherback Sea Turtle

Last night we witnessed a becoming rare and natural event. Around 10 pm we heading down to the Las Baulas National Marine Park office to sign up for a turtle tour. We were advised to wear dark clothing, sandals, and not to bring cameras or flashlights. We waiting for 3 hours until a local tour guide found a turtle for us to observe. They are not many for they are quickly becoming endangered for the development in the area. We are so glad we waited. Our guide led us in the dark, close to the waters edge until we came upon the site. He turned on his flashlight...covered with red cellophane (so not to disturb the mother turtle). We huddled around to see this huge sea turtle, the oldest and largest reptile on the planet. It was easily the same length as Bethany, weighing even more. She was digging a hole with her hind flippers. One leg at a time removing sand to make a hole to lay her eggs out of danger. We watched the entire process taking another 2 hours. After she got the depth she wanted we watched her lay the eggs, which numbered a couple dozen. She carefully replaced the sand covering the eggs, this time using both front and back flippers. With each pile of sand, she then patted it down to secure the eggs. Unfortunetly we didn't get to see the end. We left right before she was finished so that she could return to the ocean in peace.
What an amazing event! We could only think of Chauncie and how much she would love it here. They do have a volunteer service during September - March, the time when the females come to Playa Grande to nest!
We had a great end to our four days in Playa Grande. We are now off to Santa Cruz, to go on a coffee tour, see a tortilla factory, and see a wonderful pottery district.