Lights out! Turtle Season Begins. (Friends of the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine reserve)

From the Friends of the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Reserve:

It’s that special time of year again — sea turtle nesting season is officially underway, from May 1 through October 31! Along the shores of the GTM Research Reserve, our beach becomes a nursery for Loggerhead, Green, and Leatherback sea turtles, who return each summer to quietly nest along our shores after dark.

These ancient mariners face increasing challenges, and we can all do our part to give them the best chance at survival. Whether you live nearby or just love our beaches, here are some important ways to help our turtle friends this season:

Be Mindful of Beach Lighting

Lights can disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings, pulling them away from the safety of the ocean. Sea turtles—especially hatchlings—are instinctively drawn toward the brightest horizon, which should naturally be the moonlight reflecting off the ocean. But when lights from homes or developments are visible from inland, turtles can head the wrong way and end up on roads, in dunes, or trapped by obstacles.

• Turn off outdoor lights visible from the beach after sunset

• Close curtains and blinds at night to reduce indoor light pollution

• Avoid using flashlights or camera flashes on the beach — use a red-filtered flashlight if needed

Keep the Beach Turtle-Friendly

Turtles need a clear, obstacle-free path to safely nest and return to the sea.

• Fill in holes in the sand and knock down sandcastles before leaving

• Remove all beach furniture at the end of the day

• Stay off dunes and marked nesting zones

Help Us Protect, Not Disturb

• Never touch, approach, or disturb a nesting turtle or hatchling

• Don’t set off fireworks or release balloons — these can be deadly to turtles and other marine life

• Remember: Sea turtles and their nests are protected under state and federal law

Adopt a Nest – Support Research & Protection

Want to make a lasting impact? You can symbolically adopt a sea turtle nest at GTM to help fund:

• Over 25 years of research and data collection

• Vital equipment and support for our volunteer Sea Turtle Patrol

• Conservation efforts that extend across state, national, and international programs

Each adoption level comes with special perks and helps protect these incredible creatures.

Adopt a Nest Here
Learn more: gtmnerr.org/adopt-a-nest

Report a Concern

• If you see a disturbed nest, an injured turtle, or hatchlings in danger:

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) – 24/7 Statewide Line
1-888-404-FWCC (1-888-404-3922)

This is the official hotline for turtle emergencies anywhere in the state of Florida. Do not attempt to move or assist the turtle — trained responders will guide you.

Together, we can make a meaningful difference for our local wildlife and preserve the magic of turtle season for future generations. Thank you for being part of our community and supporting GTM’s mission.

Warmly,
Friends of GTM Team