Watch Nesting Sea Turtles in Florida
Nature - The Area
Nestled along the sandy shores of Sarasota County, our beaches offer a unique experience during Florida’s turtle nesting season. Manasota Key Beach and the surrounding areas are home to sea turtles who make their nests here each year.
These sea turtles are native to Florida’s beaches. Hundreds of baby turtles being born on our shores. Our nesting beaches are beautiful year-round, but really come to live during this special season. Come experience turtle nesting season in Florida!
Types of Florida Sea Turtles
Florida is home to several sea turtle species. The Loggerhead sea turtle is the most common sea turtle seen on our beaches. It’s an impressively large turtle with a recognizable heart-shaped shell. Loggerhead sea turtles in Florida are known for their long migrations.
Green Sea Turtles also nest in Sarasota County, though they are less common than Loggerheads. They named them for the greenish color of their body fat. Their nesting season on Manasota Beach usually overlaps with the Loggerheads.
Although less common, the Leatherback sea turtle occasionally nests in the southwest Florida area. It’s easily distinguished by its flexible shell made of rubbery skin.
From May through October, our shores come alive with the different species of sea turtles. Nesting female turtles make their way to the sandy beach to lay their eggs.
The nesting process is incredible to watch, as these majestic animals dig their nests and lay their eggs. Then they head back to the ocean until next year.
Preserving Native Florida Sea Turtles
It is crucial to protect native sea turtles during the turtle season in Florida. They are a crucial part of a healthy marine ecosystems.
Each year as summer approaches, the area prepares for the sea turtle hatching season. The turtles lay their eggs and about three months late, their sea turtle hatchlings dig their way out of the nest.
It’s magical to see these baby turtles emerge from their shells and make the sandy trek back to the sea. This journey may seem short to us but it’s fraught with challenges that threaten our native sea turtle’s survival.
Conservation Efforts at Manasota Key Resort
At Manasota Key Resort, we are committed to conservation efforts to keep our beaches clean and our turtles safe. We have added beach cleanup stations along the coastline to keep the beach free from debris that could harm nesting turtles.
To safeguard the nests and hatchlings, we implement measures to limit beach use around nests. These protected zones ensure the turtles have a safe environment to lay their eggs without disturbance.
If you’re planning a visit during sea turtle nesting season in Florida, get ready for an unforgettable experience. The area is home to many nature attractions for hiking and kayaking enthusiasts. Join us at Manasota Key Resort to experience nature’s magic.
