05/06/2026
Did you know that 5 of the world’s 7 species of sea turtle can be found in Florida? Loggerhead sea turtles are our most common species, but we also have leatherback, green, hawksbill, and Kemp's ridley sea turtles!🐢🌊
From May through October, these shelled cuties will head to the beach, where the shorelines provide vital nesting habitat. The success of the nesting season is as important as ever. Why, you may ask? Because each of these 5 species is listed as threatened or endangered. As a keystone species, sea turtles play a crucial role in keeping our oceans healthy, and we certainly can't afford to lose any help on that front! The success of this nesting season depends heavily on us and on how we care for our beaches. Here's how you can help this nesting season:
🔆 Lights out for sea turtles: Lights can misdirect and disturb nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean and toward potential danger. Turn off porch, parking, or deck lights when not in use and close curtains after dark.
👀 Look but don't touch: It is illegal to harm or harass sea turtles, their nests, or eggs. Give them respect and space. Do not attempt to move hatchlings to the water; this is a special time for their muscle development!
⛱️ Clear the way: Obstacles on the beach can trap and entangle turtles and other wildlife. Tear down sandcastles, fill in holes, remove food scrapes, properly discard fishing gear, and pick up trash to keep the beach and wildlife safe and healthy.
📱 Get help: You can report those that are sick, injured, entangled, or dead to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Nesting season is here! You can help us make it a safe and successful one for our incredible sea turtle friends.
