The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued a reminder for beachgoers this holiday weekend to be mindful of nesting sea turtles, shorebirds, seabirds, and wading birds. The nesting season is ongoing, and visitors to Florida’s beaches can aid in the success of these species by maintaining distance, keeping beaches clean and dark, and avoiding personal fireworks.
Florida’s beaches serve as vital nesting grounds for several federally threatened and endangered sea turtle species such as loggerhead, leatherback, green sea turtles, and occasionally Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. Additionally, coastal habitats like beaches and islands are crucial for imperiled shorebirds and seabirds including black skimmers, least terns, snowy plovers, and American oystercatchers. Mangrove islands also provide essential nesting sites for wading birds like herons and egrets.
To support these wildlife efforts during the Fourth of July celebrations:
– Leave fireworks to professionals to prevent disorienting or disrupting nesting animals.
– Maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from nesting sea turtles or hatchlings.
– Give beach-nesting birds a wide berth of at least 300 feet.
– Avoid entering posted areas designated for wildlife protection.
– Properly dispose of trash and remove obstacles from the beach each day.
– Minimize lighting on beaches after dark to avoid disturbing turtles.
– Keep pets leashed or at home to prevent disturbances to wildlife.
Additional resources are available for those interested in learning more about conservation efforts. Information on waterbird nesting can be found at MyFWC.com/Shorebirds or through the Florida Shorebird Alliance website. For details on helping sea turtles, visit MyFWC.com/SeaTurtle or consult the FWC’s “Be a Beach Hero” brochure. Reports of disturbed or injured sea turtles can be made to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
