Xcacel (pronounced ish-ka-shell) is one of the few remaining nesting grounds for the endangered Atlantic green and loggerhead turtles. For years it was a federally protected zone, until it was sold—illegally—in 1998 to a Spanish conglomerate. The group immediately tried to push through an elaborate development plan that would have destroyed the nesting grounds. This prompted Greenpeace, in cooperation with biologists, scientists, and other locals, to fight an international campaign, which they won, to save the turtles. You can visit the turtle center or offer to volunteer. The Friends of Xcacel Web site (www.turtles.org/xcacel.htm) has more information.
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