Sea Turtle nesting season in Park Shore is entering its final two months. This has been a good year as far as the number of nests in Collier County is concerned with numbers exceeding last year’s. As of August 25th, Collier County has 2157 nests this year as opposed to 1745 last year. Nesting season officially runs from May 1 through October 31st. It is crucial to protect these nesting sites by following regulations such as keeping beaches clean and dark at night, as well as avoiding any disturbance of nests or hatchlings.
Unfortunately, disorientation of the hatchlings does occur when artificial lights on beachfront properties causes the hatchlings to crawl towards the road instead of the Gulf. Hatchlings have been observed on Gulf Shore Blvd, and fines have been issued to hotels and businesses for violating sea turtle lighting laws.
- What to do:
- Keep beaches clean and dark at night: This includes removing beach furniture and litter that could obstruct nesting turtles or hatchlings.
- Minimize artificial lighting: Bright lights can disorient turtles and their hatchlings, leading them away from the Gulf.
- Respect marked nesting sites: Stay away from areas designated as nesting zones.
- Report any disturbances: If you see any suspicious activity, such as someone disturbing a nest, contact local authorities or wildlife organizations.
- Fill in holes in the sand to prevent obstacles or traps for hatchlings.
Thank you for your care for our native wildlife!
