The female sea turtle lays up to 100 eggs, which incubate in the warm sand for about 60 days, according to NOAA Research. The Sea Turtle Weekly Activity Report shows that Marco has reported one hatched nest.
Almost there! A newly hatched sea turtle hatchling approaches the surf for the first time.
Photo by Tonya Long, FWC
Just remember: Hands off! According to FWC, this is the best policy when encountering sea turtle hatchlings. “Many Florida beachgoers are unaware that sea turtle hatchlings should be watched from a distance and left undisturbed,” according to Dr. Robbin Trindell, who heads the FWC’s sea turtle management program. According to FWC, “well-meaning efforts to rescue a sea turtle hatchling by helping it leave a nest or picking it up and placing it in the ocean are not good ideas.”
Yet, many beachgoers cannot help themselves when they see these cute, seemingly helpless hatchlings scampering toward the water. They are just helping these poor things get to the water quickly. Or worse yet, they are handled to take a photo. Only individuals with a special permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are allowed to handle sea turtle hatchlings.
Let nature take its course! According to FWC, you can help the hatchlings get home (to the water) by leaving them alone. Sea Turtle researchers say that any misdirection to their path, such as getting through a maze of sandcastles or beach toys, may leave them exhausted and disoriented.
So, please remember to keep your hands off sea turtle hatchlings and tell others to do the same.