Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins

One of our favorite marine creatures is the sea turtle and their nesting season begins May 1 and continues through October. Sea Turtles have long called the white sand beaches of Northwest Florida home.

Lucky for us, female sea turtles return to the beach of their birth every two years to nest. Loggerhead and Green Sea Turtles are two of the most common species that nest along the South Walton and Destin, Fla. shores. These threatened and endangered animals deserve our respect and consideration.

If you see a turtle, look but don't touch. You may see tracks in the early morning and a mound where momma sea turtle made her nest. Do not disturb the nest and contact wildlife officials so it can be counted and protected. You can help momma turtle by cleaning the beach each afternoon and removing trash, chairs, tents, and umbrellas when you leave the beach. Also, fill in any holes you may dig in the sand during the day. 

In late summer and early fall when the hatchlings begin to emerge, turn off lights near the beach that may disorientate the turtles and prevent them from reaching the surf. Only a small number of turtles survive so they can use all the help we can give them. 

Organizations such as the South Walton Turtle Watch help protect the sea turtles and increase their population. Want to learn more? Check out the great article in today's Northwest Florida Daily News. 

And be sure to take advantage of special experiences such as Kayaks by Ross and Destin Snorkel as part of the Newman-Dailey Gift Card for the chance of having a close encounter with these gentle marine creatures.