The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has announced that the official sea turtle nesting season on the islands will conclude on October 31.
The SCCF provided a final count of its successful season as of October 22, showcasing significant numbers for both species monitored:
- Loggerhead Nests: 868
- Loggerhead Hatchlings: 27,083
- Green Turtle Nests: 21
- Green Turtle Hatchlings: 607
While the season is winding down, the SCCF issued an important reminder to the public: residents and visitors must continue to turn off or shield any lights visible from the beach after 9 p.m. This practice is crucial to ensure any remaining hatchlings can safely navigate to the water without being disoriented by artificial light.
For anyone who observes issues with sea turtles or their nests on Sanibel and Captiva, the public is asked to contact the SCCF’s Sea Turtle Hotline directly at 978-728-3663.
