Nighttime Sea Turtle Nesting Walk

Join Martin County in celebrating our iconic sea turtles at this FREE educational and engaging nighttime sea turtle walk. We have partnered with Ecological Associates, Inc. (EAI) to provide you with a unique and unforgettable opportunity to learn about sea turtle biology and conservation. The staff at EAI specializes in sea turtle research and works under a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Marine Turtle Permit. The evening starts with a presentation given by EAI (lasting about 45-60 min) covering sea turtle biology, nesting process, and threats to sea turtles. If the scout on the beach identifies a loggerhead sea turtle in the appropriate stage of nesting, we will then go to the location to watch her lay the eggs. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for you to join us under the direction of experts to ensure minimal disturbance to the sea turtles and to learn about these amazing animals.

The informational talk will begin promptly at 9:00 PM while the EAI staff is out patrolling the beach for nesting loggerhead sea turtles. Doors open at 8:45PM for check in. There is NO GUARANTEE that we will encounter a nesting female each night. If a turtle has not been spotted by 11:00PM we will end the program.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING AND CONSIDER BEFORE REGISTERING:

We suggest children be 6 years or older to participate. No infants will be allowed to be carried on the beach. All minors (under 18) must be accompanied by an adult.

Absolutely NO white lights, flash photography or cell phones will be allowed on the beach during our walk. This is extremely important to protect our sea turtles!

You must be in good physical condition and be able to walk approximately 1 mile on the beach during our walk. There is a potential for tough terrain including uneven surfaces, rocks, shells, and seaweed.

Prepare and dress accordingly. The program will take place outdoors on the beach rain or shine, with possible exposure to biting or stinging insects. Please apply insect repellant at your vehicle before we get on the beach.

Please do not bring any valuables on the beach with you. Martin County and EAI will not be liable for the loss or destruction of any personal items during the sea turtle walks.

We would like you to enjoy your experience. Strict state regulations are followed to ensure the safety of the sea turtles and staff reserve the right to cancel or stop a program if at any time someone is causing disruption to any nesting turtle.

All participants will be required to sign electronic waivers that will be sent prior to the program

VISITOR INFORMATION

If you are a visitor planning a trip to Martin County and would like to preregister for the event, please email ecotourism@martin.fl.us

Looking for an eco-friendly place to stay while visiting Martin County? Check out one of our Green Lodging Hotels!

Space is limited, but there will be a waitlist available.

We kindly ask that if you are unable to attend an event you have registered for, please give us at least 48 hours’ notice to allow us to offer your spot to someone else.

Further details will be provided after registration. We hope to see you there!

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