Wildlife

Welfare of Nesting Sea Turtles

Nesting sea turtles face welfare threats from beach development, artificial lighting, poaching, and entanglement that affect individuals and populations alike.

Key Facts

Seven species of sea turtles exist, all threatened or endangered
Artificial beach lighting disorients hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean
Egg poaching remains common despite legal protections in most countries
Adult females return to their birth beach to nest, a dangerous journey
Bycatch in fishing gear kills or injures thousands of sea turtles annually

Welfare Considerations

Sea turtle welfare spans the entire life cycle, from hatchlings disoriented by light pollution to adults entangled in fishing gear. Beach protection programs, light ordinances, and bycatch reduction devices make measurable welfare and conservation differences.

What You Can Do

Turn off or shield beach lights during nesting season
Support sea turtle nesting patrol and hatchery programs
Advocate for TEDs (Turtle Excluder Devices) in shrimp trawling regulations
Never disturb nesting sea turtles or purchase sea turtle products