Early Preparations Begin for Sea Turtle Hatching Season Amid Post-Storm Challenges

Local organizations along Manatee County’s coastline are ramping up efforts to protect sea turtles as hatching season approaches, even though the official start date isn’t until May 1. This year’s preparations come with new challenges, particularly in Bradenton Beach, where last year’s hurricanes significantly altered the shoreline landscape.

One of the most pressing concerns is the loss of sand dunes, which typically serve as natural barriers to protect sea turtle hatchlings from artificial lights. These dunes help guide the turtles toward the Gulf waters by blocking out distractions from streetlights and buildings. Without them, the chances increase that disoriented hatchlings will wander inland, where they are vulnerable to traffic and predators.

The season kicks off with the annual Suzi Fox Day on May 1, honoring the region's legacy of sea turtle conservation efforts. Holmes Beach will host Sea Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts every Monday at City Hall throughout the summer. The event aims to educate residents and visitors about the critical roles sea turtles and shorebirds play in the coastal ecosystem and how the community can help protect them.

In Manatee County, sea turtle nesting typically peaks from May through October. The most common visitors are Loggerhead turtles, though green and Kemp’s ridley turtles are occasionally spotted. Nesting females come ashore at night to lay their eggs, which incubate for about 60 days before hatching. During this time, volunteers patrol the beaches at sunrise to document nests and ensure their safety.

Residents are urged to turn off or shield beachfront lighting, remove beach furniture overnight, and avoid using flashlights or camera flashes near nesting areas. These small efforts help ensure that the next generation of sea turtles reaches the ocean safely.

As the 2025 season begins under unique circumstances, local groups remain committed to supporting these endangered creatures and adapting to the changing coastal environment.