Community Corner

First Sea Turtle Hatchlings of the Season Spotted on Madeira Beach

Sixty-seven newborns made a mad dash for the water after emerging from shells. They were under the watchful eye of Clearwater Aquarium.

The first hatchlings of the sea turtle nesting season in Pinellas County were spotted recently by volunteer patrols on Madeira Beach.

Sxity-seven babies recently made the mad dash for the water under the watchful eye of staff and volunteers from Clearwater Aquarium. All made it safely.

The aquarium staff has an awesome responsibility to protect the endangered sea turtle along 26 miles of coastline during nesting season, which runs through October.

Patrols are working day and night to identify and keep an eye on nests along Indian Rocks Beach, Belleair Beach, Clearwater and numerous other locations. The hatchlings are vulnerable to sea birds and other animals that see the endangered baby turtles a tasty snack. 

People who live near the shoreline also are being reminded to turn out their lights late at night, as it can distract or disrupt sea turtles making nests and laying eggs.

Now the public can help out the hatchlings, too – by adopting a sea turtle nest. 

It is easy to do and will help support work done locally to help the sea turtle population survive and thrive in Florida waters.

The Adopt A Nest program allows members of the public to adopt a nest by giving a donation that goes toward protecting sea turtle nesting activity along local Pinellas County shores. The deadline to adopt is Sept. 30.

There are different adoption levels. Just click on the links to 'Adopt a Sea Turtle Nest."

Friend: $35.00Donors receive a certificate and photos.Advocate: $50.00Certificate, photos, nesting video, small plush turtle.Guardian: $75.00Certificate, photos, nesting video, large plush turtle. 

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