Did you know that nearly 90 percent of sea turtle nesting in the U.S. occurs in Florida from March 1 through October 31 of each year?
Different species of turtles nest at different times, with leatherbacks nesting first in March, loggerheads (Florida's most common) in April, and green turtles in May. During peak season in June and July, researchers at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) have counted around 300 nests per day. In 2023, the LMC recorded a record-breaking 25,025 nests, which produced more than one million hatchlings.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center, located in Loggerhead Park, Juno Beach, Fla., is a sea turtle research, rehabilitation, education, and conservation center. The Center also manages the Juno Beach Pier across the street from the park. Established in 1983, LMC seeks to promote conservation of ocean ecosystems with a special focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles. Its facilities include a sea turtle hospital, a research laboratory, and exhibit areas, including live sea turtles and other coastal creatures.
Visiting LMC is great activity for the whole family, make sure to stop by and check it out!