Development of an index of sea turtle abundance based upon in-water sampling with trawl gear

This study was designed to provide fundamental data for the in-water population of turtles along the southeast coast of the United States, with particular emphasis on measuring abundance. Much of our knowledge of sea turtles has come from data collected on nesting beaches or opportunistically during regulation of fisheries. Through an in-water survey we hoped to provide a better understanding of turtle abundance, spatial variability and population characteristics