Sea turtle season in Volusia County officially begins May 1, but three sea turtle nests are already incubating on county beaches.
The first leatherback nest was laid on March 9, setting a new county record for the earliest nest laid. This early nesting could signal a bustling few months ahead as hundreds of sea turtles are expected to visit the county's shores to lay their eggs.
After a two-month incubation in the sand, hatchlings will emerge, navigating numerous challenges as they scramble to the ocean. It's estimated that only about one in 1,000 to 10,000 hatchlings will survive to adulthood, which can take 10 to 25 years, depending on the species. Last year, 902 sea turtle nests were counted on County-managed beaches, resulting in tens of thousands of hatchlings.
The County's Environmental Management Division continuously educates beachfront property owners about sea turtle-friendly practices, especially regarding lighting. During the nesting season, it is crucial to shield, redirect, or turn off lights that could shine on the beach in accordance with local sea turtle lighting ordinances. The County’s Habitat Conservation Plan program provides free educational materials to property owners, who can order these resources through the program's website at www.volusiaseaturtles.org.
Residents and visitors can further contribute to sea turtle conservation by adhering to guidelines such as not touching or disturbing the turtles or their nests, using designated beach access points, driving only in designated areas, avoiding flash photography and cellphone lights at night, and using red LED flashlights. After beach visits, it’s essential to flatten sandcastles, fill in holes, and remove all beach gear to avoid hindering the turtles' journey to the sea. Proper trash disposal and minimizing fireworks also aid in protecting nesting turtles and beaches.
The number of sea turtle nests is growing each year, with over 580 typically laid and a record 1,516 nests in 2023. As the nesting season continues through Oct. 31, community support is key to keeping this positive trend going. For more information about Volusia County's sea turtle program or questions about sea turtle-friendly lighting, visit www.volusiaseaturtles.org.
