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Volusia County-managed beaches already had three sea turtle nests by the start of the season. The first was laid by a leatherback sea turtle on March 29. The other two were laid by Kemp’s Ridleys, the world’s smallest and most endangered species of sea turtle.

With water temperatures warming quickly, hundreds of sea turtles will be emerging from the surf to lay eggs on the beach in the next few months.

After incubating in the sand for about two months, tiny hatchlings will break free of their eggshells and make an often-treacherous crawl to the ocean, dodging predators, holes, trash and beach furniture.

“Our goal is to make Volusia County beaches a safe and inviting place for humans and sea turtles,” said Jaymie Reneker, Volusia County’s sea turtle Habitat Conservation Plan program manager. “We encourage residents and visitors alike to respect our wildlife. The largest impacts even a single person can make are keeping our beaches clean, dark and flat. We encourage everyone to let the night provide the light on our coastline.”

Beach recovery from the 2022 hurricane season is underway and will continue through the nesting season.

Coordination of all construction projects is being handled by Volusia County’s Environmental Management and Coastal divisions alongside partners from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Visit volusia.org/beachcleanup.

Protecting Hatchlings

Residents and visitors can help save sea turtle lives by following these tips:

„ Do not touch or disturb sea turtles or their nests.

„ Do not disturb the dune system. Do not walk on the dunes.

„ When driving on the beach, use designated lanes and parking areas. Beach driving hours are from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the nesting season.

„ Do not use flash photography at night.

„ Do not use cell phones to light your way at night.

„ Use only red LED flashlights; they are less visible to turtles.

„ After a day at the beach, flatten sandcastles, fill in holes, and take your chairs and equipment with you.

„ Dispose of trash and recyclables in proper receptacles.

„ Do not use fireworks.

„ If a turtle appears to be in immediate danger, notify a lifeguard or Beach Safety officer or call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-3922.

Nesting season runs through Oct. 31. On average, more than 580 nests are laid in Volusia County. Last year’s season was the highest on record, with 1,427 nests counted.