Proof that Loggerhead and Green sea turtles are making a comeback in the Gulf of Mexico can be seen on the beach where nesting season is in full swing. Unlike Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, which nest in the spring, Loggerhead and Green sea turtles will continue nesting through mid-September.
To help nesting mothers, beachgoers need to know some basic facts, which differ from Kemp’s ridley turtles.
Nesting Loggerhead and Green sea turtles come ashore almost exclusively at night and could be on the beach for two hours or more. Approaching with a bright light will frighten then back into the water before nesting. Stay back from the animal and do not shine a light on her.
These turtles are much larger than Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. They can weigh more than 30 pounds and are unable to move fast enough to avoid vehicles driving on the beach. Collisions with such a large animal can damage both the turtle and the car, so please drive carefully and follow the speed limits
Report any turtles spotted by calling (361) 949-8173 ext. 226.
Kemp’s ridley nestings broke a state record this year with a total of 353 nests found. Of those, 219 (also a state record) were found at
Padre Island National Seashore. the Kemp’s ridley season has ended for 2017, with no more public releases of hatchlings planned this year.
Loggerhead numbers stand at around 10 statewide, with six found at PINS. Green sea turtle nests in August stand at 22 state wide, with 17 found at PINS.