FWC urges the public to steer clear of nesting sea turtles this holiday weekend

July 1, 2015 

Suggested Tweet: Give #SeaTurtles room this holiday weekend, advises @MyFWC: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/10cdb81 #Florida

 

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FWC urges the public to steer clear of nesting sea turtles this holiday weekend

 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is urging the public to be aware of nesting sea turtles while they celebrate this holiday weekend.

 

FWC law enforcement officers on patrol this weekend will explain the unintended consequences that can occur when nesting turtles are disturbed by beachgoers. They also will explain the laws in place to protect these turtles.

 

This year there appears to be a higher than average number of reported false crawls on the area’s beaches. A false crawl is when a turtle comes onto the beach with the intention of laying eggs but returns to the water without nesting.

 

“False crawls can be caused by a variety of reasons. However, human interaction, including the use of bright lights, is often a cause,” said FWC Capt. John Suggs. “We want to let people know that their behavior can prevent sea turtles from nesting, further jeopardizing these threatened and endangered species.”

 

The Marine Turtle Protection Act stipulates that it is illegal to injure, harm, harass, capture or attempt to capture any marine turtles, eggs or nests. Any person committing such an offense can be facing a third-degree felony charge.

 

“We appreciate the public’s interest in these unique reptiles, but we want people to know that an action as simple as shining a light on a nesting female can have serious consequences,” said Suggs. “When you are on the beach, don’t interfere with turtles, and give them ample space and time to complete their nesting process, which can take up to two hours.”

 

The FWC recommends that people interested in watching a turtle nest on the beach attend a permitted public sea turtle watch. Watches are usually held during June and July, and reservations must be made in advance. For a list of organizations permitted to conduct watches, visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle and click on “Where to view Sea Turtles.”

 

If you see someone disturbing a nest or turtle, call the FWC Division of Law Enforcement at 888-404-FWCC or *FWC from your cell phone.