September 1, 2023
Washback Season
August 1 through November 30 is Washback Season. When baby sea turtles hatch and emerge from their nests, they head for the ocean and swim towards the Sargasso Sea. There they find food and shelter from predators among the sargassum seaweed. They live among the seaweed for the first few years of their lives as they strengthen and grow. When storms, like Idalia, and strong winds occur, clumps of seaweed may be "washed back" from the Sargasso Sea to our shores. The young, post-hatchling sea turtles (weeks to months old) that end up back on the beach among the seaweed are called "washbacks." They are often found in the wrack (the line of seaweed, shells and driftwood that collect on the beach). While your first instinct may be to place the small sea turtles back into the water, that's not the best way to help them. They may be weak, exhausted or dehydrated and in need of medical care.  If you find a washback, please call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at ​1-800-404-FWCC (3922).

Florida Sea Turtles

There are 5 species of sea turtles found along Florida's Beaches.

LOGGERHEAD

The Loggerhead Turtle is the most common turtle on  our beaches. She is named for her immense, block-like head and strong jaws.

LEATHERBACK

The Leatherback Turtle is the largest turtle. She has a leathery shell, can reach up to 7 feet in length and weigh up to 1,500 pounds.

GREEN

The Green Turtle gets her name from the color of her fat. She is an herbivore, eating plants, sea grasses,
​ and algae.

HAWKSBILL

The Hawksbill Turtle has a beautiful, distinct carapace (shell). It is  tortoiseshell in color and almost heart-shaped. 

KEMP'S RIDLEY

The Kemp's Ridley is the most endangered sea turtle in the world. She is relatively small, weighing less than 100 pounds.
If you find a sick or injured sea turtle, please do not place it back in the water as it may need medical assistance. 
Call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commision at 1-888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922).