Sea turtle nesting season beg goes from May 1 until October 31.
Turtle Season began on May 1, 2021 and continues until October 31, 2021.
Newly hatched turtles find their way to the sea by following the natural light reflected by the water. Young turtles have a small amount of energy that must take them to the water. Under natural conditions, they go to the brightest spot on the nighttime beach. If they disorient and head the wrong way, they may starve to death before landing in the floating sargassum weeds that are their food source.
Here are some important ways you can help:
- Pick up litter on the beach
- Fill in holes on the beach from beach goers;
- Make sure your lighting on your home is sea turtle compliant if you live on the beach side.
The Tampa Bay area averages about 120 nests each season, and each nest can contain an average of about 100 eggs. If you are lucky enough to find a turtle nest on the beach, don’t disturb it. If the nest is unmarked, notify the Clearwater Marine Aquarium at (727) 441-1790.