Sea turtle nests, skimmer chicks destroyed; FWC seeks information

June 30, 2015

Suggested Tweet: Anna Maria #SeaTurtle nests, black skimmer chicks destroyed. Got info? Call 888-404-3922 @MyFWC! https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/10cac64

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Sea turtle nests, skimmer chicks destroyed; FWC seeks information

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking information about the identity of a man and woman responsible for knowingly driving an all-terrain vehicle through marked-off sea turtle and shorebird nesting areas – destroying five sea turtle nests and killing two black skimmer chicks. A third chick was injured and transported to a local wildlife rehabilitation center.

The incident occurred on Anna Maria Island between Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach on June 27 at about 10:30 p.m.

Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach police departments are also investigating.

Anyone having information about those responsible is urged to report it to the Wildlife Alert reward program anytime, day or night, by texting or emailing Tip@MyFWC.com or calling 888-404-3922. Those reporting wildlife and fisheries law violations may remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward upon the conviction of a violator.

Sea turtles, their eggs and their nests are protected under state and federal law. Under state law, destroying a sea turtle nest or eggs is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to a $5,000 fine and/or five years in prison. Black skimmers are listed by the state as a Species of Special Concern.

For information on imperiled species and efforts to protect them, visit myfwc.com/imperiled species or call the FWC regional office in Lakeland at 863-648-3200.