How You Can Help Sea Turtles

DO: Watch in the dark, your eyes will adjust Remain quiet and stay behind a nesting turtle, so you can watch without disturbing her Shield or turn off outdoor lights that are visible on the beach from May through October Close drapes after dark Put beach furniture as far back from the water as possible Fill in holes that may entrap hatchlings on their way to the water Place trash in its proper place and out of the path of hatchlings

DO NOT: Approach nesting turtles or hatchlings closely, make noise, or shine lights at the turtle Use flashlights or fishing lamps on the beach Encourage a turtle to move while nesting, she will often rest before returning to the ocean Pick up hatchlings heading toward the water