The Gulf Shores coastline in Alabama serves as an important nesting ground for several species of sea turtles protected under federal law. This coastal area provides the necessary environment for the turtles to complete their reproductive cycle, which begins when the females come ashore to lay their eggs. The presence of these endangered animals highlights the special ecological role the Gulf Shores beaches play each year.
The Timeline for Nesting and Hatching
The sea turtle season along the Alabama Gulf Coast runs from May 1st through October 31st. Nesting primarily occurs during the summer months, with females coming ashore from May through July or August. The female emerges under the cover of darkness to dig a deep egg chamber where she deposits around 80 to 120 soft, leathery eggs before returning to the Gulf.
The hatching period begins several weeks later, starting in late July and extending through early October. The incubation period for the eggs buried in the sand usually lasts between 55 and 75 days. Once ready, the hatchlings emerge from the nest in a group eruption, using natural light cues to guide them toward the water. Hatching is a nocturnal event, with peak activity occurring during the late summer and early fall months.
Species Common to Gulf Shores Beaches
The beaches of Gulf Shores are visited by three main species of sea turtles, all listed as threatened or endangered. The most frequent nester is the Loggerhead sea turtle, identifiable by its large head and reddish-brown shell. Adult Loggerheads often weighing between 200 and 350 pounds and reaching lengths of over three feet.
Another species that occasionally nests here is the Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle, the smallest sea turtle globally. These olive-green turtles typically weigh between 80 and 100 pounds as adults. Green sea turtles also visit the area; they are characterized by a relatively small head and a shell that can have a mottled pattern.
Safety Guidelines and Conservation Rules
The conservation of these vulnerable species requires strict adherence to local safety guidelines, especially regarding light pollution. Artificial lighting from beachfront properties and flashlights can disorient both nesting females and hatchlings, drawing them away from the ocean and leading to exhaustion or predation. Visitors must turn off any outdoor lights that are not turtle-friendly and close blinds or curtains to prevent interior lights from shining onto the sand after dark.
Disturbing a sea turtle, its nest, or its hatchlings is a federal offense resulting in significant fines, as these animals are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Beachgoers must follow several rules to protect the turtles:
- Stay back at least 30 feet, remain quiet, and avoid using flash photography or any direct light source if a nesting turtle or emerging hatchling is encountered.
- Immediately report any suspected nest or sighting of a nesting turtle or stranded hatchling to the local conservation program, Share the Beach, by calling the Sea Turtle Hotline at 1-866-SEA-TURTLE.
- Fill in any holes dug in the sand.
- Remove all beach furniture and gear before sunset, as these obstacles can trap and impede both nesting turtles and hatchlings.