F.I.S.H. OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA Chris Lechowicz

F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva is continuing its community-wide Friendly Faces Luncheon in a virtual format. Islanders can attend via the Zoom platform for games, conversation and guest speakers.

The next one will take place on Sept. 13 at noon, featuring herpetologist and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz as the guest speaker. He will discuss terrestrial turtles and what frog calls. Terrestrial turtles, like box turtles, are turtles that live primarily on land but are often found near ponds, lakes or shallow bodies of water.

“It’s an honor to host Chris Lechowicz from SCCF,” Senior Services Director Erika Broyles said. “We are looking forward to learning more about the wildlife that surrounds us on our beautiful islands.”

Lechowicz had an interest in nature at a young age, especially with amphibians and reptiles. His passion for all things slimy and scaled led him to the Chicago Herpetological Society, where he was mentored by numerous members and visiting scientists. Lechowicz has two Bachelors of Science in zoology and in computer science from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and a Master of Science in environmental science from Florida Gulf Coast University.

He began working at the SCCF in 2002. As land manager, Lechowicz oversees nearly 2,000 acres of conservation land with the help of his field technicians. Prescribed burns, exotic plant removal, native tree planting and other habitat restoration techniques are used to maintain functioning ecosystems on the islands. He is also the IT manager, and he maintains an educational website on map turtles and is involved with projects along the Gulf Coast. Lechowicz is a member of the Turtle Survival Alliance, IUCN/SCC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group, a board member of the Florida Turtle Conservation Trust, and an active member of the Calusa Herpetological Society.

Prepared by George & Wendy’s and delivered by F.I.S.H. volunteers starting at 11:30 a.m., the lunch will consist of a cold entree, side, water bottle and dessert. The cost is waived and complimentary to all participants. Meal choice details are provided upon sign-up.

Reservations and meal choices are required by Sept. 9.

For more information or to make a reservation, contact the F.I.S.H. Walk-In-Center at 239-472-4775. Once registered, F.I.S.H. will provide an emailed link and meeting ID number for access.

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