Florida’s coastline is a globally significant nesting ground for sea turtles, with tens of thousands of females visiting annually to lay eggs. This annual cycle is crucial for the continuation of sea turtle species.
Understanding Florida’s Nesting Season
Florida’s sea turtle nesting season generally runs from March through October, with peak activity occurring between May and July. During this time, the highest number of sea turtle mothers come ashore to lay their eggs.
Rising water temperatures signal the start of nesting season. Females mate in near-shore waters before coming ashore. After eggs are laid, incubation typically lasts 45 to over 60 days, influenced by sand temperatures. Cooler temperatures extend this period, while warmer conditions shorten it.
Which Turtles Nest in Florida?
Florida beaches host significant nesting populations of three primary sea turtle species: loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles. Other species like the hawksbill and Kemp’s ridley are found in Florida waters but nest only sparsely.
The loggerhead sea turtle is the most common nesting species in Florida, supporting one of the largest global nesting aggregations. Their nesting season runs from April to September, peaking in June. Females lay an average of four clutches per season, each with around 114 eggs. Loggerheads are classified as a threatened species.
Green sea turtles also nest in Florida, with their season occurring from June through September. Females lay an average of 3.6 nests per season, each containing approximately 136 eggs. The Florida population was reclassified from endangered to threatened in 2016, reflecting conservation successes.
Leatherback sea turtles, the largest sea turtle species, are the earliest nesters, with their season spanning from March to July. They lay between two to six nests per season, with an average clutch size of about 73 eggs. Leatherbacks are listed as an endangered species.
Protecting Nests and Hatchlings
Protecting sea turtle nests and hatchlings requires collective effort, particularly concerning beachfront lighting and disturbance. Artificial light from coastal properties can disorient nesting females and emerging hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean and towards danger. Florida Statute 379.2431 specifically protects marine turtles, their nests, and eggs, prohibiting disturbance. To mitigate light pollution, turn off outdoor lights, close curtains after dark, and consider using turtle-friendly lighting (long, low, shielded, often red or amber LED bulbs).
If encountering a nesting female, maintain at least 30 feet distance, remain quiet, and avoid flashlights or flash photography, as this can cause her to abandon her nesting attempt. Avoid marked nesting areas, often indicated by stakes and tape, to prevent accidental damage. Beach cleanliness is important; remove all furniture, fill in holes, and properly dispose of trash before nightfall to ensure clear paths to the sea. Report any injured or dead sea turtles, disturbed nests, or disoriented hatchlings immediately to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at 1-888-404-FWCC.
The Journey of a Hatchling
Sea turtle eggs hatch after about two months of incubation, with hatchlings emerging from their sandy nests, usually at night. Guided by instinct, they orient towards the brightest horizon, which is the reflection of moonlight on the ocean’s surface. This directs them from the nest to the sea.
Hatchlings face numerous challenges during their dash to the water. Natural predators like birds, ghost crabs, raccoons, and fish pose a significant threat. Artificial lighting from coastal development can disorient them, causing them to crawl inland and become vulnerable to dehydration, predators, or being run over. Obstacles like footprints, discarded furniture, or holes can also trap or impede their progress.
Once hatchlings reach the ocean, they enter a “swimming frenzy” to escape nearshore predators, eventually embarking on their “lost years” in the open sea. The survival rate for hatchlings to reach adulthood is low, estimated at approximately one in a thousand.