While our thoughts go out to those in the Bahamas and others ravaged by Hurricane Dorian, we are thankful that the destruction was not as bad in our area. Unfortunately, as you may have guessed, many sea turtle nests have been and will continue to be washed out along Florida's coast during this stormy weather. While that is, indeed, sad to hear, rest assured that mama turtles may be smarter than you think. Rather than laying just one clutch of eggs per season, a mama turtle will come to shore several times during each nesting season. This increases the chance that some of her babies will hatch and make it out to sea. If one nest is destroyed, by storms or predators, the other nests may still survive.
In the days to come, you may see turtle eggs being washed out to sea or hatchlings being washed back to shore. Hatchlings that have been washed back are often exhausted and in need of medical assistance. Please do not place them back in the ocean, instead call the FWC at 888-404-FWCC (3922) for assistance. Thank you for your help and concern! ~ The Volusia/Flagler Turtle Patrol
Watch Sea Turtles Emerge
If you see hatchlings on our beach, enjoy the wonder, but remember... Keep a Safe Distance & Look, but Don't Touch!
If you come across a nesting sea turtle on our beaches, please keep your distance and do not disturb her. She may become spooked and return to the water before laying her eggs.
If you find a sick or injured sea turtle, please do not place it back in the water. Call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922) for assistance.