An Urgent Message From The City of Sanibel & SCF April 1, 2016
SAVE SEA TURTLES TURN OFF LIGHTS & CLOSE CURTAINS/BLINDS AFTER DARK
Hatchling sea turtles are guided to the ocean by an instinct to travel away from the dark silhouettes of the dune vegetation and toward the brightest horizon — light from the sky reflecting off the ocean. Artificial lights near the beach can deter females from nesting and disorient hatchling sea turtles. Most hatchlings that wander inland will die of exhaustion, dehydration or predation. Local ordinances in effect year-round prohibit BOTH interior and exterior lights from illuminating the beach.
PROBLEM
SOLUTION
INTERIOR LIGHTING SOURCES Including chandeliers, lamps, and other fixtures, that are visible from the beachfront. Unshielded interior lighting, even from just a single beachfront condominium, resort unit, or residence, is enough to disrupt the normal sea-finding behavior of sea turtle hatchlings. EXTERIOR LIGHTING SOURCES Including flood lights, porch ceiling fan lights, parking area lights and other fixtures that are visible from or directly, indirectly, or cumulatively illuminate the beach.
CLOSE CURTAINS AND BLINDS Or TURN OFF LIGHTS after dark.
SHIELD OR TURN OFF OUTDOOR LIGHTS NEAR OR FACING THE BEACH . Replace the light source with a low-wattage, yellow or amber bulb.
PORTABLE LIGHTING SOURCES Including flashlights, lanterns, or flash photography.
AVOID USING FLASHLIGHTS, LANTERS, OR FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY WHILE ON THE BEACH AT NIGHT.
Cover the lens of your flashlight with red cellophane to make it less disruptive to sea turtles
For more information regarding sea turtles on Sanibel or the City’s beachfront lighting regulations, please visit the City’s website at http://www.mysanibel.com/Depatments/Natural-Resources/Protecting- Our-Beaches/Sea-Turtles or contact the Natural Resources Department at 239.472.3700. To report violations during normal business hours, contact the City’s Natural Resources Department at 239.472.3700. After hours, contact the Sanibel Police at 239.472.3111.
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