There are just a few rules to follow to ensure islanders,
visitors and sea turtles can live together in harmony!
No beach furniture, tents or shelters, beach toys or towels left
on the beach, please. Turtles cannot back up; they can only
go forward. These things will trap turtles.
All holes dug on the beach should be filled in before you leave.
Turtles, particularly baby turtles, can become trapped
and not be able to reach the water
Do not touch a turtle nest.
Do not let dogs roam free on the beach, because they
may root around in the nests or eat hatchlings.
Turn off all beach-facing lights in your home or in your yard.
Lights at night can be mistaken for the moon by turtles
and they become disoriented.
To report a dead or debilitated sea turtle call
(888) 404-FWCC (3922).
May/June 2018 GASPARILLA ISLAND 89