CEPD offers reminders for turtle season
With the start of sea turtle nesting season, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) reminded the public that the island’s beaches serve as important nesting habitat from May 1 through Oct. 31.
“During this time, small actions by everyone on the beach can make a meaningful difference in protecting nesting turtles and hatchlings,” it reported.
Lee County’s rules and requirements that apply during season include the following:
– Keep beachfront lighting from being visible on the beach at night. Shielding lights, using amber-colored LED lights or 25-watt yellow bug lights, and closing blinds or curtains after dark is recommended.
– Remove beach furniture and equipment from the beach each night. Beach furniture and equipment should be removed between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. every day, and the county ordinance regulates how beach furniture may be transported and set out.
– Motorized vehicles and open fires are not allowed on the beach, except for limited authorized uses.
– Do not disturb marked sea turtle nests and stay at least 10 feet away from them. The county’s sea turtle conservation regulations require nesting activity and marked nests to be avoided during authorized beach operations.
To help protect turtles and hatchlings, the public can take the following additional steps:
– Fill in any holes, knock down sandcastles and remove chairs, tents and other items before leaving the beach, so the beach is left as flat and clear as possible overnight. Deep holes and large sand structures can create obstacles for nesting turtles and can trap hatchlings trying to reach the Gulf.
– If you see a marked nest, do not disturb it, dig near it or allow anyone to tamper with the posted area. Giving nests plenty of space helps protect both eggs and hatchlings.
“By keeping our beaches dark, flat and free of obstacles at night, the community can play an important role in supporting one of Captiva’s most important natural resources throughout nesting season,” the CEPD reported.
For more information, visit https://www.mycepd.com/sea-turtle-nesting.