Helpful Reminders for Sea Turtle Nesting Season in St. Augustine

One of the most beautiful phenomena of the local wildlife in St. Augustine takes place during sea turtle nesting season. If you don't know how it works, mother sea turtles come to shore and dig holes in the sand to lay their eggs. When the incubation period is over, the babies will hatch and then crawl their way to the ocean guided by the moonlight. 

This is a very delicate process that has been endangered as society builds around these coastal sanctuaries. As our guests, we want to make sure you're equipped to help preserve this act of nature during your stay. When you're booking your St. Augustine trip, keep these helpful reminders for sea turtle nesting season in your back pocket.

Sea Turtle Nesting Tips

1.  Be Aware of Nests on the Beach: Sea turtles lay their eggs at night so if you're out for a stroll in the early morning then be aware of new holes in the ground where eggs may be. Nests that have been discovered will be marked and taped off so do not get too close to them.
2.  Turn Off Lights in Your Vacation Rental: Baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean by the light of the moon so lights on the shore or off shore can confuse them and cause them to go in the wrong direction. Lights should be turned off by 10pm so that the turtles can safely make the trek to the water. 
3.  Leave No Trace on the Beach: Before you pack up your stuff on the beach for the day be sure to remove all trash and knock down any sandcastles. Sandcastles and trash can be a hazard for fresh hatchlings and cause them to not make it to the ocean or get caught by predators on the way. 
4.  Program Helpful Numbers into Your Phone: Florida Wildlife Commission’s (FWC) Wildlife Alert Number is 1-888-404-3922. Program that into your phone so if you see a dead, sick, injured, or stranded sea turtle, you can quickly call for assistance. It is also important to report any harassment of turtles or disturbance of nests. They are protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 and Florida's Marine Turtle Protection Act (379.2431, Florida Statutes).
5.  Never Tamper with Nests or Sea Turtles Themselves: The most important rule of all is to never harm or mess with the sea turtles. While you may believe you're helping them get to the ocean, scientists believe this trip to the water lets them imprint on their own beach. Wildlife can also carry diseases so it's best to just let them make the journey on their own and call the FWC if you have a concern. 

Enjoy the Wonders of Sea Turtle Nesting Season and Book Your St. Augustine Vacation Rental Today!

Sea Place Condos offers you beachfront access to where the action takes place and you can observe from a distance. Enjoy your relaxing St. Augustine vacation with the warm, Florida air and surrounded by all the natural beauty of the area. Book your vacation rental today and enjoy a fully-equipped kitchen and all the space you need to relax and enjoy that well deserved vacation.

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