Sea Turtle Lighting and Beach Friendly Tips

Sea Turtle Lighting

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There are three species of sea turtle listed as endangered or threatened by state and federal authorities that are found nesting on the beaches of Amelia Island. These include the Leatherback, the Loggerhead, and the Green Sea Turtle. These turtles come to our beaches to create nests to lay their eggs during turtle season, which runs from May 1 to October 31. During this time, it is very important to not interfere with the nesting process.

Outdoor lighting is a common interference for newly hatched sea turtles. They use the light of the moon shining on the ocean to guide them to the ocean. Artificial light from streetlights, lamp posts, and light fixtures can lead the turtles away from the ocean, which puts them in great danger of injury or death.

The City of Fernandina Beach works every year during turtle nesting season to monitor lights in the beach area to limit light interference with turtle nesting activities. Please help us keep the beach a safe place for turtles by using proper outdoor lighting, as required by City Code. You can view the City's outdoor lighting code and also check out Certified Wildlife Lighting for use on your property. If you have questions on outdoor lighting, please contact Code Enforcement at 904-310-3440.

The Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch is also heavily involved in monitoring and protecting sea turtle nests on the island, and works closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and other agencies to ensure turtle safety.

View the Sea Turtle Conservancy's video "Darker Beaches, Brighter Futures for Sea Turtles!"

Beach Friendly Tips

Welcome to the neighborhood...

It may not look like a typical neighborhood to you, but the beach is home to many different residents. From grasses to gulls, this diverse community has it all. Help us keep our neighbors happy!
Several organizations in the community are working to help protect our beaches and their residents. Visit the Coastal Wildlife Conservation Initiative, and Wild Amelia pages to learn more.

Click here for information on beach accesses in Fernandina Beach, and visit the Florida Coastal Access Guide for general information.