Florida

Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests Across Florida

Florida wildlife officials said there have been a record number of green sea turtle nests around the state this year.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission documented approximately 28,000 green sea turtle nests on 26 Florida beaches this year.

Nearly 30 years ago, only 464 green turtle nests were recorded on these 26 beaches. The numbers have gradually increased over the years thanks to conservation efforts. In 2011, the count was 10,701 and in 2013, it was 25,553.

The counts represent about 68 percent of green turtle nesting statewide.

Loggerhead sea turtles, which are the most prevalent sea turtle species on Florida's shores, accounted for 52,647 nests on index beaches this year.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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