Volusia County, FL - Sea turtles are nesting along Volusia County's beaches and officials say it looks like this could be another record year.
According to Volusia County's Community Information Office, through mid-August, there have already been 687 nests counted, including four Kemp's Ridley sea turtle nests. That's a record number for what's the smallest and most endangered sea turtle.
Here's the full breakdown of recorded nests so far this season:
Sea turtle nesting will continue through August and into early September. The latter part of the season and into October is the nest hatching phase. That means baby sea turtles will be emerging from their nests and making the dangerous trek to the ocean. They'll be dodging predators, holes, trash, vehicle tracks, and beach furniture. And, tragically, some will be fatally led astray by beachfront lighting.
To help protect sea turtles from bright lights the county does have a lighting ordinance. The goal is to reduce the amount of light visible from the beach. The lighting ordinance applies during sea turtle nesting season, May 1 through October 31, and it requires beachfront property owners and guests along the coast to make sure their interior and exterior lights aren't visible from the beach. People walking on the beach should also limit the use of cell phones and flashlights so they don't disrupt hatchlings as they try to make their way into the ocean.
If you see a nesting adult sea turtle or hatchlings keep quiet and stay at a distance. If it looks like there's something wrong with the turtle or if it's in immediate danger notify a lifeguard or beach safety officer or call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-3922.
To learn more about Volusia County's sea turtle program call 386-238-4668, or go to VolusiaSeaTurtles.org. To learn more about lighting on the beach and how it impacts nesting sea turtles and hatchlings click here or call 386-238-4773.
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