There are many reasons that people flock to the Gulf Coast of Florida, and our rich and diverse wildlife is a significant draw. One of the most anticipated events of the spring season is the discovery of the sea turtle nests, representing the continuation of a beloved local species. Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, has officially documented the first sea turtle nests of the 2025 season, marking the beginning of another critical period for sea turtle conservation. The first nest was discovered on April 28, 2025, on Venice Beach, signaling the start of the nesting season for these endangered marine reptiles.
A Dedicated Effort to Protect Sea Turtle Nests
Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program (STCRP) has been monitoring local beaches since April 15 in preparation for the official nesting season, which runs from May 1 to October 31. The team conducts daily surveys of approximately 35 miles of beaches, from Longboat Key to Venice, to document nesting activities and protect sea turtle nests. This extensive monitoring effort is made possible by the dedication of over 300 volunteers, interns, and staff members who assist in the daily patrols.
The first nest of the season was laid by a loggerhead sea turtle, a species classified as threatened under federal law. Loggerheads are the most common sea turtle species nesting on southwest Florida beaches, followed by endangered green sea turtles. Sarasota County has also hosted several endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, among the smallest and rarest sea turtle species in recent years.
Despite the official start of the nesting season being May 1, Mote’s early patrols aim to document any early nesting activity. This proactive approach allows the team to identify and protect nests as soon as they are laid, ensuring the safety of the eggs and the hatchlings that will emerge later in the season.
Sea Turtle Nests – Conservation and Research
Mote documents nest counts, emergence success, and environmental impacts throughout the nesting season. This data collection helps researchers analyze trends in nesting behaviors and assess the effectiveness of conservation efforts. Each nest is marked with yellow stakes and flagging tape to indicate its location and protect it from potential disturbances. Visitors to area beaches will likely spot these flagged areas as they walk along the dunes.
In 2023, Mote documented 4,284 nests across the monitored beaches, marking one of the top three highest nest counts in recent years. They are hoping for a similarly successful 2025 season.
How Visitors and Residents Can Help the Turtles
Mote encourages the public to report any suspected sea turtle nests or sightings to their Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program at 941-388-4331. If you encounter a sea turtle on the beach, do not approach or disturb it. Instead, observe from a distance and let the turtle complete its undisturbed nesting process. Additionally, be cautious of artificial lights on the beach, as they can disorient both nesting females and hatchlings. Keeping beaches dark during nesting season is crucial for the survival of these endangered species.
As the nesting season progresses, Mote’s STCRP will continue its daily monitoring efforts, documenting nests and collecting valuable data to inform conservation strategies. The early discovery of the first nest of the season is a promising sign for the health of sea turtle populations in the region. With continued public support and awareness, Mote aims to ensure the successful hatching and safe journey of sea turtle hatchlings into the Gulf of Mexico.
Planning Your Siesta Key Vacation
If you visit Siesta Key this spring or summer, consider calling Ride and Paddle before your trip. We have all of the vacation gear you will need to fully experience our slice of paradise – from beach chairs and umbrellas to kayaks and bicycles.
The Florida Gulf Coast offers amazing natural beauty, not the least of which is the appearance of the sea turtle nests. We hope to see you soon so you can experience this unique event for yourself.
