when do turtles hatch in florida

when do turtles hatch in florida

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Nature

In Florida, sea turtle hatching generally occurs between mid-June and October, with hatchlings emerging from nests primarily at night. The official sea turtle nesting season spans from March 1 to October 31, with peak hatching usually happening in June and July. Hatchlings typically emerge about 45 to 70 days after eggs are laid, and this usually happens after sunset to avoid heat and predators. The hatchlings then make their journey to the ocean guided by moonlight.

Key points about sea turtle hatching in Florida:

  • Nesting season: March 1 to October 31.
  • Most hatchlings emerge from mid-June through October.
  • Hatchlings dig out of sandy nests at night to avoid predators and heat.
  • Hatchlings rely on natural light cues like moonlight to find the sea.

This timing coincides with when eggs incubate, usually for 45 to 70 days after being laid in the nests during the spring and summer months.

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