Sea Turtles - Where and When?

[Mom B]

We are members at VB and my older DS (33) has a fascination with turtles and would like to go sometime during turtle nesting season. However, we've been to Vero a number of times and haven't tried HHI yet. From what research I've been able to do, the sea turtles nest in that area as well. For those of you who've experienced this, which resort would be better and what time period would be best? We would prefer going after Labor Day (we are Minnesotans and I think we'd have problems with the summer weather) but then I"d worry about hurricane season too. Any suggestions? TIA!

 

[vicki_c]

The season in Florida/VB is March - October.

I looked up Hilton Head because I didn't know - it says on the HHI town site that their mating season is May to August, although their lighting restrictions stretch from May to October 31.

My own (limited) understanding is that there are many more sea turtles in Florida than SC.

 

[mikeandkarla]

Definitely Floridas Treaure Coast. It has the largest Sea Turtle nesting in the western hemisphere. Australian coast is the best. I am not sure of the actual dates, however I know June and July are great for Sea Turtle nesting around VB. Archie Carr Wildlife Refuge offers turlte walks weeknights during that time. Here is some info: http://www.fws.gov/archiecarr/turtlewalks.html

 

[bookwormde]

Since there are reguations in regard to nesting sea turtles I would suggest that you reaserch and contract one of the organizations that monitor, mark and protect the nests and see if they allow guests on their "expiditions". If they do not they can at lest give you the infomation on how to do it without disrupting the turtles or nests (and stepping over the regulatory line). Sanibel might be a good area to look at.

bookwormde

 

[dis-happy]

As someone who used to volunteer on a turtle patrol, you question is a tad confusing. Nesting season takes place early in the summer (mostly May-July) while hatching seasons begins approx. 60 days after the nests are laid. If you go in Sept. you'll be looking for hatching. Your ds should get up early in the morning and look for tracks down to the beach. Once in awhile he may actually run across some baby turtles making their way to the water. The main thing to remember: don't disturb mothers who are nesting, babies that are hatching and going out to sea, or nests in general. However, if you happen to catch sight of it....it's the most wonderful sight in the world!