As many of you already know, sea turtle nesting season is from May 1st through October 31st each year. During this time period, residents and visitors are asked to be mindful of turtle nests and to avoid any activities which may prevent a female from laying eggs. Below are some things to keep in mind to insure the turtles have a successful nesting season.
Lights affect nesting females and hatchlings
Respect the mothers as they produce their hatchlings and fulfill their need to lay as many eggs as possible
-Sabrina Robertson
County Manager's Conference
Lights affect nesting females and hatchlings
- Beach fires are prohibited because they distract nesting turtles, attract hatchlings and kill nearby nests.
- Flash photography can be disturbing and are harmful to see turtles.
- Replace white porch lights with a 25 watt yellow bug light or amber/red LED bulb.
- Eliminate, turn off, redirect or shield lights that can be seen from the beach surface.
- Install timers and/or motion detectors and set the timer to 5 minutes or less for areas where light is needed.
- Remove all beach gear items each day prior to nightfall.
Respect the mothers as they produce their hatchlings and fulfill their need to lay as many eggs as possible
- While walking, be aware of turtle nests and avoid getting too close
- Walking on moist sand will prevent surprising a female and emerging hatchlings. If you encounter an adult emerging from the sea, be still and allow her to travel up to the beach. Speak softly and slowly while in their presence.
- Do not approach a female while she is laying her eggs.
- While walking on the beach, look out for baby turtles on their way to see and avoid stepping on them.
- Hatchlings do not need help walking on the beach, however they do need a clear path to the ocean.
-Sabrina Robertson
County Manager's Conference
RSS Feed