Frequently Asked Questions

This information can be found on the Gulf Count Sheriff's page: http://www.gulfsheriff.com/pdf/resources/BA5FD37B-073D-B68B-35C936958CA654C1.pdf

If a deceased turtle is found, first please do not disturb it. Then you can call FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922). Second choice would be to contact us.

There are six sea turtle species found in U.S. waters and they all are protected by the Endangered Species Act. They are the green, hawksbill, Kemp's ridley, leatherback, loggerhead, and olive ridley. (Flatbacks are in Australia and are listed as endangered as well.)

The natural lifespan of a sea turtle is estimated to be 50-100 years.  Sea turtles are ancient species, since the time of the dinosaurs — about 110 million years. 

This answer is simple if you follow these rules:  

• Light's out! Artificial light may disorient hatchlings (no to flashlights too!)
• If you see a turtle nest, leave it alone! Nests are protected by federal and state laws.
• When leaving the beach, make it flat. Knock down sandcastles, fill in holes, and remove everything you brought with you, including beach items, food, and trash.
• Dispose of trash properly and use reusable bags. Turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish or get tangled up in kite strings, six-pack rings, and fishing lines.