The Beaches of South Walton is not only home to many residents and guests, it is also the summer home to two species of Sea Turtles.
The female Green Sea Turtle and the Loggerhead Sea Turtle return to our beaches every two years from May to October to lay their eggs. Surprisingly, nesting season started early this year, with two turtle nests already located at WaterSoundBeach and DeerLakeState Park!
As a reminder, baby sea turtles are very vulnerable to the elements. Of 125 eggs the mothers deposit in the sand, barely one or two will survive to reach 1 year old.
Here is how you can help ensure these turtles continue to thrive and play in our area:
1. Remove all items from the beach including chairs, umbrellas, and toys so that it will not disturb either the mother coming on shore to lay the eggs, nor the babies when they are hatched.
2. Fill in any holes you dig and smooth out any sand castles you make on the beach.
3. Baby sea turtles are sensitive to light. Try to turn off all light that can be seen at the beach. If the turtle sees light they will wander farther up into the dune and not head back to the sea where they find safety.
4. Sea turtles can mistake plastic for jellyfish, a main staple in their diet. Please do not leave any plastic on the beach.
For more information on South Walton Sea Turtles go to www.seaturtlewatch.com.
