Florida wildlife officials are urging beachgoers to follow guidelines protecting nesting sea turtles and shorebirds, particularly during a long holiday weekend.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said sea turtle nesting season remains underway, with hatchlings emerging from nests around the state. The hatchlings are vulnerable to disruption—getting closer than 50 feet to nesting turtles or emerging hatchlings can delay their journey to the ocean. It is illegal to harm, disturb or pick up hatchlings.
Artificial lighting poses a major threat. Beachfront property owners should close curtains after dark and turn off outside lights when possible, as any lighting can disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings and lead them toward land instead of the water. Required exterior lighting adjacent to nesting beaches should be long wavelength, mounted low and shielded. Visitors should avoid using flashlights, cell phone lights or taking flash photos after dark.
Flightless shorebird chicks may also still be present on Florida beaches. Shorebirds including piping plovers and red knots are returning to Florida beaches to refuel during migration. Visitors should keep dogs leashed and far from wildlife on dog-friendly beaches, as friendly dogs can cause birds to flee and abandon their chicks.
Beachgoers can help protect wildlife by clearing obstacles from the sand before leaving. Holes and beach furniture can trap sea turtle hatchlings and prevent adult turtles from nesting. All fishing line should be disposed of properly in monofilament recycling stations, as it can be deadly to sea turtles and waterbirds. Personal fireworks should be left at home, as the noise and lights can disrupt sea turtles and waterbirds.
Visitors who find a disoriented sea turtle hatchling or an adult sea turtle in distress should call the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).