Sea Turtles Nest on Volusia Coast
Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach, Florida
Endangered Sea Turtles
Volusia County's world famous beaches attract millions of visitors each year. The sparkling, clean sands of Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach offer a variety of safe, clean, environmentally-friendly recreational activities. These beaches also are home to hundreds of plant and animal life. Some creatures, such as the loggerhead sea turtle are threatened with extinction. They are protected by state and federal laws. To preserve this beautiful natural resource for future generations of visitors, everyone must participate together to protect this lovely and fragile beach ecosystem.
From May 1 through October 31, Volusia beaches host -- the sea turtle. The sea turtles emerge from the surf at night to lay their eggs in nests which they dig into the dry sand, then they return to the sea. Two months later, close to a hundred hatchlings emerge from each of these nests and crawl to the ocean. This amazing cycle is thousands of years old.
Volusia County has taken several steps to protect these sea creatures. Beach driving and parking is regulated. Vehicles are not allowed west (landward) of the dune conservation zone where sea turtle nests are most common. Night driving and lighting from beachfront properties is restricted because the mother turtles and tiny hatchlings are confused by bright lights.
http://volusia.org/environmental/natural_resources/seaturtles/turtord.htm
While you are staying on the beach in Ormond Beach or Daytona Beach, remember to:
- Turn off balcony lights and draw window blinds shut. Sea Turtles are drawn to the artificial light and will not turn to the safety of the sea.
- Do not touch nests. They will be identified and roped off by sea turtle patrols.
- Bring in beach chairs and beach toys; do not leave them on the beach at night.
By the Sea Winds Vacations
Registered in the State of Florida
Seller of Travel
State Reg No. ST 37570