In partnership with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and dedicated volunteers, the city of Sanibel diligently monitors its beaches to safeguard shorebirds and sea turtles. Given the island’s critical role as a nesting habitat for these species, beachgoers and boaters are urged to contribute to the preservation of this barrier island sanctuary.
SHOREBIRDS
Shorebird nesting season spans from February through August. Their eggs, often laid in shallow scrapes in the sand or among seashells, are well-camouflaged and easily disturbed by unsuspecting beachgoers and their pets. Here’s how you can help:
- Respect posted areas: Avoid nesting and resting zones by using designated beach paths or dune walkovers.
- Maintain your distance: If shorebirds take flight as you approach, step back. Disturbing nesting birds exposes their eggs to predators and the harsh sun.
- Do not intentionally disturb birds: Chasing or scaring birds depletes their energy reserves, crucial for nesting and migration.
- Keep pets away from nesting areas: Even well-behaved pets can be seen as threats. If you bring pets to the beach, ensure they are on a leash no longer than 8 feet.
- Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife: Food scraps attract predators like raccoons and crows that prey on shorebird eggs and chicks. Dispose of all waste properly to prevent wildlife entanglement.
For more information, visit the SCCF at SCCF Shorebirds. Watch the city’s “Share the Shore with Shorebirds Conservation Video” here.
SEA TURTLES
Sea turtle nesting season runs from mid-April through October. Nesting females and hatchlings face numerous hazards, including boat strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and disorientation from artificial lighting. Help protect them by following these guidelines:
- Comply with beachfront lighting ordinances: Gulf-front property owners must ensure their lights do not illuminate the beach, in line with the city’s marine turtle protection laws.
- Avoid using flash photography, flashlights, or phone lights near nesting areas: Artificial lights can disorient sea turtles, causing them to stray from the ocean.
- Remove beach furniture and equipment when not in use: Items left on the beach between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. can obstruct nesting and entangle hatchlings.
- Level sandcastles and fill holes before leaving the beach: This ensures a clear path for sea turtles and hatchlings.
Report violations immediately to the Sanibel Police Department at 239-472-3111, Sanibel Code Enforcement at 239-472-4136, or Natural Resources at 239-472-3700.
For questions about the city’s lighting regulations, contact Rachel Rainbolt at Rachel.Rainbolt@mysanibel.com.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can all play a part in protecting the precious wildlife that relies on Sanibel’s shores.
