Sea turtle nesting season has begun in Miami-Dade County, running annually from April 1 to October 31. However, it's important to note that nesting activities may occur outside of these dates.
Throughout the nesting season, surveys are conducted daily along the county's shores to monitor, document, and analyze all sea turtle nesting activity. When a successful crawl resulting in a nest is identified, staff members promptly cordon off the area using stakes, neon tape, and a prominent nest sign to safeguard it during the incubation period. Approximately 600 nests are established on Miami-Dade County's beaches each year.
Each nest typically hosts around 100 hatchlings that subsequently make their way to the ocean. However, statistics suggest that only one in a thousand hatchlings will reach adulthood, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts for the species.
Understanding Sea Turtles: Threats and Protections
Sea turtles, valued inhabitants of our coastal ecosystems, face various threats, leading to their classification as threatened or endangered under federal, state, and local laws. Key threats include artificial lighting, boating traffic, pollution, plastic ingestion, entanglement with fishing gear, and loss of nesting habitat due to coastal development.
Guidelines for Public Interaction
Residents and visitors encountering sea turtles on the beach are urged to adhere to established guidelines to ensure the welfare of these creatures:
- It is common to spot adult or hatchling sea turtles on summer nights; however, routine crawling or nesting activities should not be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission unless the turtle is in imminent danger or has strayed onto hazardous terrain.
- Maintain a respectful distance from crawling or nesting sea turtles to minimize disturbance during this critical phase of their life cycle.
- Promptly report all stranded (dead or injured) turtles to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for appropriate intervention.
- Refrain from handling hatchling sea turtles and report observations of hatchlings straying from the ocean or lingering on the beach to the designated hotline.
Response Protocol for Stranded Sea Turtles
In the event of encountering a deceased, ailing, or injured sea turtle, individuals are urged to contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) 24-hour wildlife hotline at 1-888-404-3922 or dial *FWC from a mobile phone. Alternatively, direct calls can be made to the local authorities at 305-310-3046. Respondents should be prepared to provide detailed information about the turtle's condition, location, size, and any distinguishing markings, enabling swift assistance from wildlife professionals.
As we navigate through sea turtle nesting season, let us remain vigilant, respectful, and committed to preserving these magnificent creatures for generations to come. Through collective action and awareness, we can contribute to the conservation of sea turtles and the biodiversity of our coastal environments.
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