Fireworks and Flippered Friends

Fourth of July Tips for Turtles

Fourth of July celebrations are going to be in full swing this week and so is turtle nesting. The Fourth of July does create an increased threat to nesting sea turtles and hatchlings. Here are some basic do’s and don’ts of Fourth of July celebrations.

1. Trash, Trash, Trash

Another man’s trash is NOT a sea turtle’s treasure. Trash can be mistaken for food by sea turtles and once ingested can significantly harm the turtle. If you are boating or at the beach this holiday, remember to respect it – don’t trash it.

2. Lights, Camera, Stop.

Any artificial light on the beach at night can be spotted down the beach and can cause disorientation of the nesting sea turtles and hatchlings. We know that if you do encounter a sea turtle on the beach at night you want to share it with everyone on Snapchat and Facebook, but in this moment just take it in and don’t use cell phones or any flash photography.

3. Baby You’re a Firework

Fireworks are a main activity on the Fourth of July, but they can be very hazardous to the nesting sea turtles and emerging hatchlings. We know that fireworks are going to take place, but instead of lighting your own fireworks at home, opt for an official display, which will lower the amount of debris.

4. Sea Turtles aren’t Athletes

After your July 4th celebrations on the beach, be sure to break down any sand castles and fill in large holes. These can become obstacles for the nesting sea turtles and hatchlings trying to make it to the ocean. Also, be sure not to leave behind any beach supplies. They can’t hurdle like a track star.

Join our annual July 5th beach clean-up to help remove any debris left over from the celebrations.
Details here >>

Have a fun and safe Fourth of July!