Red Wing, MN. X-Vision Optics supports the efforts of Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to protect and conserve marine animals and ecosystems. Mote is an independent, nonprofit marine research institution based in Sarasota, Florida, but their scientists conduct research around the globe. X-Vision Optics has gifted Mote with night vision technology to improve sea turtle research efforts in coastal Florida, near Mote’s main campus in Sarasota. Using the Digital Night Vision Monocular (XANB60) and the Xtreme Digital Night Vision Binoculars (XANB35), the Mote’s scientists were able to conduct their permitted sea turtle research with minimal disturbances to these animals. “As outdoor enthusiasts, we at X-Vision Optics are thrilled to support the Mote research team. Wildlife conservation and preservation is core to our beliefs whether on land or water” Chris Shimek, X-Vision Optics owner and partner.

Kristen Mazzarella, Senior Biologist at Mote, and her team were able to view the turtles from over 100 feet away using the Digital Night Vision Monocular. When using the monocular, viewers can see objects up to 150 yards away at night and 400 yards during the day. Mazzarella shared her thoughts on the devices. “We LOVED the screen of the monocular as it allowed us to see the turtles at 50-100 feet away and gave a clear view of what the turtle is doing. The focus and screens were excellent! In addition to conducting our research, we were able to show the screen of the device to members of the public that were on the beach, which helped to discourage them from approaching the turtles, thereby further protecting the sea turtles from disturbances” Mazzarella stated.

Under appropriate permits from the state wildlife agency, Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Mote’s scientists work to improve understanding of sea turtles through a nighttime tagging program that identifies individual sea turtles through flipper and/or passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags. Flipper tags are similar in concept to cattle ear tags, and PIT tags function like a pet microchip does. In order to lessen the impact of the tagging process on the female nesting turtles, Mazzarella and her team watch the sea turtles from a distance with the night vision devices, in order to better observe the turtle and correctly time when they approach to apply tags to the turtle.

Mazzarella joined Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program in 2008. In 2009, she was promoted to Senior Biologist, and she currently coordinates the nighttime tagging research program. When identifying and tracking sea turtles, Mazzarella comments on the ease of the task when using the Night Vision Monocular. “We really liked the wide variety of IR levels available on the Monocular. The focus and zoom were great and super simple to operate on both devices. We definitely love having the ability to record our work. The photos and videos came out excellent . . . especially when mounted on a tripod.” With the night vision devices, Mote is able to continue to conduct vital marine science research that benefits these protected species, while ensuring the least amount of disturbances possible for sea turtles.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium conducts permitted sea turtle research under FWC Marine Turtle Permits 027, 028, 054, 070, 126, 155, and 216

About X-Vision Optics: X-Vision Optics is a Red Wing Gear brand located in Red Wing, Minnesota. The owners grew up in the woods and on the waters of the upper Midwest and are passionate outdoorsmen who are excited to run a business in an industry they love. At X-Vision Optics, our goal is to help others discover the outdoors while making our customers our number one priority. We are dedicated to delivering innovative products to live your adventures, build your community, and experience life outdoors. At X-Vision Optics, we want everyone to get out and see more!

To learn more about X-Vision Optics Products, please visit xvisionoptics.com and follow us on Instagram

Contact Information: Mari Bodensteiner, Sales and Marketing Account Manager

Email: mari.bodensteiner@redwinggear.com |Phone: 651-385-2609