There are seven species of sea turtles that have managed to survive into modern society.  Today, all seven species are considered threatened or endangered. Four of these species; the Loggerhead Sea Turtle, the Green Sea Turtle, the Leatherback Sea Turtle, and the Hawksbill Sea Turtle nest on the beaches of South Florida from March through October every year. The Loggerhead is most common sea turtle found in Southeast Florida and Florida’s beaches are the second most important nesting area in the world for this particular species of turtle.

In the United States, a major threat to sea turtles lies in the continuing destruction of their nesting beaches. Vehicular traffic, loss of dune systems, and beach front lighting all significantly reduce sea turtle’s nesting success.  Sea turtles are protected through Florida Statues, Chapter 370, and by the United States Endangered Species Act of 1973.  In summary, these laws state that: "No person may take, harass, harm, pursue, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or attempts to engage in any such conduct to marine turtles, turtle nest, and/or turtle eggs."  Any person who knowingly violates any provision of the act may be assessed civil penalties up to $25,000 or criminal penalty up to $100,000 and up to one year imprisonment.  

Please click on the links below for more information on Florida's Sea Turtle Conservation Programs:

Florida Marine Turtle Program 

National Save the Sea Turtle Foundation

Sea Turtle Conservation - How Can I Help?

Sea Turtle Nesting Behavior

Sea Turtle Protection

Sea Turtle Lighting Plan

Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program

Delray Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Program