Conservation Tips

IF YOU SPOT AN INJURED SEA TURTLE, CALL RESPONDERS.

  • In Florida, FWC: 888-404-3922
  • *FWC or #FWC on any cell phone
  • LMC Stranding Hotline: 561-603-0211

 

FISHING

  • If you accidentally hook a sea turtle, call responders.
  • Recycle used monofilament fishing line in PVC tubes.
  • Fish using circle hooks.

 

BOATING, SNORKELING, & DIVING

  • Place engines in neutral if sea turtles are nearby.
  • Check your surrounding area before starting the motor. Wear polarized sunglasses to help spot animals beneath the surface.
  • While boating, remain 45 meters away from marine life.
  • While snorkeling or diving, remain 5 meters away from marine life.
  • Do not anchor in sea grass beds or coral reefs.
  • Abide by speed restrictions.
  • Do not feed or touch any marine species.
  • Time spent observing animals should be limited to 30 minutes.
  • Do not block a sea turtle’s most direct path to the surface or out to sea.
  • Do not encircle marine animals.

 

AT THE BEACH

  • Knock down sand castles and fill in holes in the sand.
  • Do not approach nesting sea turtles.
  • If you spot healthy hatchlings, allow them to crawl to sea.
  • If you see turtle tracks, avoid stepping in them.
  • Use red light bulbs during nesting season.
  • Close curtains to keep light pollution off the beach.
  • Remove beach furniture overnight.
  • Properly dispose of all trash and clean up any debris found on the beach.