A ritual that began millions of years ago is played out annually
in spring. That's when the majestic leatherback turtles come
ashore to lay their eggs. These creatures, which can weigh up to
800 pounds and are of an older species than the dinosaurs, are
oblivious to onlookers when they lay their eggs in the sand.
With only the moonlight to guide them, Earthwatch volunteers
patrol the beach nightly during the turtle's nesting season
to protect the eggs from predators and poachers. The beach is
a federal wildlife preserve.