Tragedy struck the shoreline of Atlantic Beach after 23 baby sea turtles were found dead, with evidence suggesting they were killed during a dog attack.
The discovery was made by volunteers with the Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol during what was supposed to be a routine nest survey. Staff have already been working overtime to assess damage from Hurricane Erin, which inundated at least 23 nests with saltwater.
Sea turtles are a federally protected species, and pet owners could face consequences if their animals harass or endanger them. Officials have not identified the dog, but conservationists are urging the public to be more vigilant.
“Even the most well-behaved dogs can be curious and easily attracted to hatchlings or nests,” the group stated. “Nests are often well-camouflaged, and both people and pets can miss them. Let’s do our part to protect the future of these amazing animals.”
Already, Florida’s sea turtle population is under threat from erosion, flooding, and shifting sand caused by hurricanes and high tides. Experts say hatchlings face the greatest danger in the brief window between emerging from their nests and reaching the ocean.
With only 1 in 1,000 hatchlings expected to survive into adulthood, every loss is considered devastating.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 2023 marked a record-setting year with over 133,000 loggerhead nests statewide—an increase of more than 30,000 from a typical season.
Still, those numbers may mean little if nests continue to be destroyed. Conservation groups caution it may take months before the full impact of recent storms and incidents like this are known.
The Beaches Sea Turtle Patrol is reminding residents and visitors:
• Always keep dogs leashed on beaches.
• Stay clear of marked nesting zones, which are monitored until at least October.
• Report any injured or dead sea turtles to FWC’s wildlife alert hotline: 1-888-404-3922.
“Every nest counts,” the group emphasized. “The survival of these hatchlings determines the future of sea turtles in Florida’s waters.”
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