Loggerhead sea turtle and least tern nests on Anna Maria Island showed resilience during last week's heavy rainfall, as reported by Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring. The organization stated that despite the harsh storm, the majority of sea turtle nests survived and are continuing to incubate for a successful hatch. It is crucial to note that turtle eggs in nests repeatedly washed over by the Gulf of Mexico can potentially drown. These nests are home to federally threatened loggerhead sea turtles and the threatened species of least terns in Florida. Meanwhile, a colony of nesting least terns in Bradenton Beach is flourishing, with the arrival of the first chick on June 14.
Important Reminders for Beachgoers:
- Keep your distance: Maintain at least a 300-foot distance from nests to ensure that birds are not agitated or forced to leave their nests, preserving their energy for nesting and caring for their young.
- Respect and avoid posted areas: Adhere to posted guidelines and regulations to protect the nesting sites and wildlife.
- No pets allowed: To preserve the sanctity of the nesting sites, pets are not permitted on Anna Maria Island beaches.
- Maintain cleanliness: Refrain from feeding wildlife as food scraps can attract predators like raccoons and crows, posing a threat to nesting birds.
- Report disturbances: If you witness individuals disturbing nesting birds, kindly advise them on the potential consequences of their actions. If disturbances persist, contact FWC's Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) to report the activities.
Ensuring the safety and protection of these nesting sites is vital for the conservation of these endangered species, and the efforts of organizations like Turtle Watch play a significant role in this mission.