Sea Turtle Nesting Beach Protection

Sea turtle nesting beaches face threats from light pollution, beach development, predation, and human disturbance that reduce hatching success and hatchling survival.

Key Facts

Seven sea turtle species nest on beaches globally, all threatened or endangered
Artificial lights disorient both nesting females and hatchlings moving toward the sea
Beach armoring and development destroys nesting habitat
Temperature of incubating sand determines hatchling sex ratios
Nest predation by raccoons, dogs, and pigs can destroy entire nesting seasons

Welfare Considerations

Sea turtle nesting beaches represent critical welfare and conservation interfaces. Both adult females and hatchlings face acute hazards from artificial lighting, human disturbance, and predators. Hatchlings that become disoriented by lights face exhausting, often fatal journeys away from the sea. Warming sand temperatures from climate change are skewing sex ratios toward females, threatening population viability. Beach protection programs that address lighting, predators, and disturbance have demonstrated clear benefits for turtle welfare and population recovery.

What You Can Do

Turn off or redirect lights visible from nesting beaches during nesting season
Support beach protection programs that monitor and protect nests
Keep beaches clear of obstacles that can trap hatchlings
Participate in organized sea turtle monitoring programs when visiting nesting beaches
Advocate for sea turtle-friendly lighting ordinances in coastal communities