Summer may be over, but sea turtle nesting season is not. These beautiful creatures have been laying their eggs and hatching along the coast of Alabama since May and this will continue through the end of October.
Daily patrols have now ended, which means it’s important to stay dedicated to following the guidelines to keep hatchlings safe.
- Avoid using flashlights or anything bright on the beach at night. The lights confuse the turtles and keep them from completing their trek to the water.
- After dark, turn off the outside lights. Again, this is to avoid drawing them inland where they cannot survive.
- Do not disturb sea turtle nests.
- Leave only your footprints. Female turtles will turn away and go back to the water if anything is in their way, preventing them from laying their eggs. This includes chairs, umbrellas, etc.
- Do not dig large holes in the sand, and be sure to fill in holes of all sizes before nightfall.
- If you see a nest that needs to be marked off, or if you spot a sea turtle, report it immediately by calling 866-SEA-TURTLE.
By sharing the beach, we can keep our turtle friends safe and protected!
Photo Credit: @raewildlife