Loggerhead sea turtle killed by vehicle on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring responded to a tragic incident early Wednesday morning when a female loggerhead sea turtle was struck by a vehicle. The turtle had nested in the dunes but became disoriented by streetlights shining over a crosswalk on Gulf Drive.

Sea turtles rely on natural light to guide them back to the ocean after nesting, orienting themselves towards the brightest horizon, typically the night sky over the water. Artificial lights can confuse them, leading them away from the ocean and towards danger.

Despite efforts to rescue her, the turtle succumbed to her injuries.

Loggerhead sea turtles are protected under both federal law, specifically the Endangered Species Act, and state regulations. Local ordinances also aim to protect these turtles by restricting lights visible from the beach. Measures include switching to turtle-friendly lighting such as red or amber LED bulbs, shielding lights to prevent beachward glare, and enforcing compliance with these regulations.

Following the incident, the turtle will undergo a necropsy conducted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Kristen Mazzarella, Executive Director of AMITWSBM, noted, "The good news is that she laid eggs before heading towards the road, so her legacy will continue." However, the nest now faces increased risk of disorientation due to nearby lights unless modifications are made promptly. Last year, 105 out of 404 nests on Anna Maria Island were disoriented, highlighting the ongoing challenge.

AMITWSBM collaborates closely with local authorities, Florida Power and Light, the Florida Department of Transportation, and the FWC to identify problematic lighting and implement solutions that are safe for turtles. The public is encouraged to report lighting violations to local code enforcement agencies.

The organization expressed gratitude to Manatee County, Mote Marine Laboratory, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and Bradenton Beach Police Department for their assistance in responding to the incident.

Residents and visitors are urged to promptly report any distressed sea turtles on Anna Maria Island to AMITWSBM at 941-301-8434 or to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. More information on protecting nesting sea turtles can be found at www.islandturtlewatch.com.