TEXAS, USA — With sea turtle nesting season getting underway, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is asking the public to do their part to protect them by driving slowly and not disturbing nest sites near beaches.
If you come across a nesting sea turtle, you're urged to report it by calling 1-866-887-8535.
"Early detection of nests and any emerging hatchlings allows trained professionals to respond and increase their chance of survival," said Fish and Wildlife Texas Sea Turtle Coordinator Mary Kay Skoruppa. "By reporting your sightings promptly from March through September, you can directly contribute to the success of these nesting attempts and help recover sea turtle populations on the Texas coast."
If possible, you should stay by the nest until a biologist can get there. If you cannot do so, you're asked to clearly mark the nest by circling it with beach debris, like driftwood.
Officials say Kemp's ridley sea turtles are particularly vulnerable as they nest during the day. The Fish and Wildlife Service said turtles go into a trance-like state when they're nesting and sometimes choose to nest in the paths left by vehicle tires.
"Driving slowly on the beach during nesting season is crucial," Skoruppa said. "By driving slowly and staying alert, you can play a vital role in protecting these imperiled animals and allowing future generations to witness the wonder of sea turtles nesting on our shores."
Nesting response efforts are being carried out by the Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, Texas A&M University at Galveston, the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, Sea Turtle, Inc., Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and the Turtle Island Restoration Network.