New Smyrna Beach Sea Turtle Nesting Surge in Volusia

New Smyrna Beach has recorded 377 sea turtle nests so far this season, nearly half of Volusia County's 770 nests as of June 15. The county has already surpassed its mid-June count from 2023 by more than 300 nests, when the season ultimately produced a record 1,516 nests by October.

The nesting season runs through Oct. 31, with activity typically peaking through the summer. Loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles nest on county beaches. Volunteers also found five Kemp's ridley sea turtle nests, the world's rarest sea turtle species.

County staff and monitoring partners mark and protect nests throughout the season. The first hatchlings are expected later this month.

Artificial lighting disorients hatchlings trying to reach the ocean. Beachgoers should remove furniture and equipment each evening, fill holes, flatten sandcastles, dispose of trash properly, and respect conservation zones.

Track nesting activity at www.volusiaseaturtles.org.