TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA)– September and October mark the last months of Florida’s sea turtle nesting season and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is warning beachgoers to keep their hands off these creatures as they make their way to the ocean.
Picking up a hatchling and placing it in the ocean is never a good idea, according to FWC biologists. After all, digging into a sea turtle nest, entering a posted area or picking up a sea turtle hatchling to take a photo are all against the law.
Any misdirection or distraction as sea turtle hatchlings make the way from their nests to the ocean can prove to be deadly. Even bright lights from homes or businesses can be dangerous because these creatures may mistake the light for the sparkling sea.
FWC biologists suggest turning off any artificial lighting on the beach at night and if you do see hatchlings, watch from a distance.
If you happen upon dead or stranded hatchlings that are wandering away from the water, call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline, 1-888-404-FWCC (3922) or *FWC or #FWC on a cellphone to make a report.
For more information, please visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle.