Some
solutions to sea turtle nesting can be found below:
-Lounge chairs and rental boats that are portable
could easily be removed from the beach area at night. Heavy wooden
lounge chairs should be removed completely during the nesting season,
or at least spaced apart 6 feet from side-to-side. Multiple rows of
lounge chairs behind hotels also result in a lack of suitable nesting
areas.
- If chairs are
to remain on the beach, density should be no more than one row during
the nesting season. Furthermore, old lounge chairs and other structures
considered “trash” must be removed from the beach instead of stacked
along the dune to rot.
- Many coastal
construction and beach re-nourishment permits now incorporate sea
turtle protection measures. Particularly encouraging, long-term
research funding is more secure because the Florida sea turtle vehicle license
plate is available for sale. Such efforts may help to secure a
bright future for these “living fossils.”
- Joining NESTS (Neighbors Ensuring Sea
Turtle Survival) Whether it is working to turn off lights that shine on
the beach, learning more about sea turtles from a resident expert, or
reducing the amount of litter found on our beaches, you will be part of
an inspired community that is ensuring the survival of sea turtles.
- Minimize
beachfront lighting visible from the beach by turning off outdoor
lighting and closing shades and curtains if you are housed along the
beach.
"Lights out" for sea turtles from May 1st to October 31st.
- "Take only
pictures - leave only footprints." While on the beach during the day do
not disturb beach vegetation since it helps stabilize the sand. Take
all of your trash and fishing gear with you. Sea turtles and other
animals eat trash and debris, thinking it is food, which often leads to
their death. Ants, birds, dogs, and raccoons are attracted to beaches
where they can find food. These same animals will eat hatchlings and
eggs.
- Use care while
on the beach at night during nesting season. No flashlights, fires, or
flash photography. Lights disrupt or disorient nesting turtles and
emerging hatchlings. Walk along the water line while on the beach to
keep from disturbing nesting females.
- When boating,
remember – speed kills: Slowing down saves lives in cars and on the
water. Remember to securely store all trash and fishing tackle to keep
it from blowing overboard.
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Resources:
http://www.seaturtlespacecoast.org
http://research.myfwc.com/features/view_article.asp?id=16538
http://research.myfwc.com/features/view_article.asp?id=16708