Ologies with Alie Ward Cheloniology (SEA TURTLES) Encore with Camryn Allen
Aug 2, 2022
Dr. Camryn Allen, a dedicated cheloniologist, dives into the fascinating world of sea turtles. She shares captivating insights about their impressive navigation skills using Earth's magnetic field and their unique sleeping patterns. Learn about the delicate balance of male-to-female ratios in breeding and the emotional experiences of hatchlings facing climate change. Camryn also discusses the urgent need for conservation, tackling plastic pollution and the importance of individual action to safeguard these incredible creatures.
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Unexpected Beginning
- Dr. Allen's turtle career began unexpectedly during a community college mapping class.
- A classmate working at NOAA connected her with researchers studying cetaceans and turtles, sparking her interest.
Determining Turtle Age
- Sea turtles' age is difficult to determine without invasive methods.
- Growth rings inside their humerus bones, similar to trees, offer the most accurate age estimates.
Turtle Sex Determination
- Sea turtle sex is determined by incubation temperature, not external features, until maturity.
- Hormonal analysis reveals sex in immature turtles, with males exhibiting higher testosterone levels.