1. Turn Out Lights. Sea turtle hatchlings use light and reflections from the moon to find their way to the water at night. Artificial lighting confuses the hatchlings and causes them to head inland instead of out to sea – putting them in dangerous situations which can lead to death. Artificial lights also discourage adult females from nesting on the beach. Short of turning off your lights, you can also take measures to shield, redirect and lower the intensity of the lights on your property. Make sure to give nesting areas plenty of space, and do not disturb females as they emerge from the ocean looking for a place to nest. Also, be conscious of where nesting areas are so that you can avoid trampling the hatchlings as they head to the water.
2. Clean Up Trash. Sea turtles can become tangled in plastic and trash both on the shore and in the water. Discarded items such as fishing lines, balloons and plastic bags may also be confused for food and eaten by sea turtles, often resulting in injury or death.
3. Fill in Holes. Hatchlings can get caught in holes when heading to the ocean making them susceptible to predators like birds, crabs, and even the hot sun. Remember to smooth over sand castles too.
Did you know the Loggerhead Turtle is South Carolina’s state reptile?
Click here for more facts and information about Loggerhead Turtles.
