Helping protect nesting sea turtles and hatchlings along Broward County’s beaches.
Broward County’s beaches provide nesting habitat for Loggerhead, Green, and Leatherback sea turtles. SFAS supports sea turtle conservation through education, responsible beach practices, and authorized work conducted under Florida’s marine turtle permitting system.
Nesting Season
FWC defines sea turtle nesting season in Broward County as beginning March 1 and extending through October 31. Activity varies by species, with nesting and hatchling emergence occurring at different times during the season.
Protected Wildlife
Marine turtles are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act and Florida’s Marine Turtle Protection Act. Activities that directly involve sea turtles, nests, eggs, or hatchlings require specific authorization from FWC.
Artificial light can disorient nesting females and hatchlings. Turn off unnecessary beachfront lights and use wildlife-friendly lighting.
Observe nesting turtles and hatchlings from a distance. Never use flash photography or interfere with their path to the ocean.
Do not touch, uncover, move, or disturb nests, eggs, or hatchlings. Authorized permit holders handle conservation activities.
FWC advises the public to watch hatchlings from a distance and allow them to crawl to the water on their own. If hatchlings are wandering away from the ocean, or if you find an injured or stranded sea turtle, contact FWC Wildlife Alert for guidance.
Learn how local lighting ordinances and wildlife-friendly lighting help reduce disorientation.
FWC issues Marine Turtle Permits for authorized activities involving marine turtles, nests, hatchlings, and related conservation work.
Sea turtle opportunities depend on current permitting, training, season, and program needs.
Small actions from residents and visitors can make a major difference during nesting season.
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