The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions during sea turtle nesting season, as hatchling disorientations are rising at an alarming rate.
As of August 19, almost 9.5% of sea turtle nests (84 out of 884) on Sanibel and Captiva had already shown signs of hatchling disorientation — nearly double last year’s total of 5.9% disoriented nests. With two months left in the 2025 nesting season, SCCF warns that the percentage is likely to increase further.
Why Disorientations Are Rising
According to SCCF sea turtle biologist Savannah Weber, recent hurricanes have significantly worsened light pollution impacts on the beaches:
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Hurricane Ian (2022) and Hurricanes Milton and Helene (2023) stripped away dune vegetation that normally shields artificial light.
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Hurricane Debby (2024) flooded beaches, washing away many nests and skewing disorientation data from last year.
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With fewer natural barriers, artificial lights from coastal properties and inland glow are more visible to hatchlings.
Normally, hatchlings navigate by heading toward the brightest horizon — the reflection of the moon and stars on the ocean. Artificial lights confuse this instinct, leading hatchlings inland where they face risks of dehydration, predators, vehicles, or death before reaching the Gulf.
How the Community Can Help
Exterior Lighting
Follow the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) “Low, Shielded, and Long” principles:
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Low: Mount lights as low as possible and use the lowest wattage.
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Shielded: Direct light downward and block visibility from the beach.
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Long: Use long-wavelength amber, orange, or red bulbs (560 nm or greater).
Interior Lighting
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Ensure no indoor light is visible from the beach at night.
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Close curtains/blinds, move lamps away from windows, or install tinted window film.
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Both Lee County and the City of Sanibel require at least 45% window tint, though shoreline properties may need darker 15% tint for effectiveness.
Using the Beach at Night
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The best option is no lights at all.
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If lighting is necessary, use only certified sea turtle-friendly red flashlights or headlamps. Note: not all red lights are turtle-safe — approved products must meet wavelength and intensity standards.
Why It Matters
“Every disoriented nest represents hatchlings that may not survive,” Weber explained. “By making small changes — from turning off lights to using turtle-safe bulbs — residents and visitors can give hatchlings the best possible chance of survival.”
