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There are only a few species so ancient that they can say they watched dinosaurs evolve and then later become extinct. As you start your adventure, your first encounter will take you within feet of some of the most majestic and ancient animals in the world! The Genesis Pond is home to our Green Sea Turtles who have matured and are at or near the age to start reproducing; which is usually at about 16 years of age in captivity. Turtles return to the nesting beaches of their mothers and grandmothers. The beach at the edge of the pond allows female turtles to nest in an environment very similar to the ones they would nest in if they were in the wild.
Green Sea Turtles are the largest of the hard-shelled sea turtles and the second largest of all turtle species. Here you will find a few weighing in at more than 500 pounds. During breeding season, from May to October, you may even be lucky enough to spot a nest where a female laid her eggs the night before!
Here you will find yearling turtles swimming and playing. For an experience of a lifetime you can interact with the turtles. There is also the option to go in one of our Wading Pools for an even closer encounter with our yearlings!
The Kemp’s Ridley is the smallest of all the sea turtles and can only be found around the Gulf of Mexico. They are currently considered the most endangered sea turtle. No petting at this tank, these little guys are snappy!
Visit the Education Centre to learn more about the turtles and our history. You can also view our turtle hatchery where during breeding season (May – October) you can witness new hatchlings making their way up through the sand of their incubation boxes!