Sea turtles exist throughout the world’s oceans, extending from tropical to temperate latitudes. Each of the seven species worldwide plays a distinct role in the ecosystem due to differences in dietary preferences and behaviors. Although sea turtles are aquatic reptiles, they come ashore to nest on beaches in the tropics and subtropics. During this time, nesting female sea turtles, incubating eggs, and hatchlings emerging from the nest are vulnerable to a number of natural and anthropogenic threats. These can include – but are not limited to – habitat loss to beachfront development, coastal light pollution, rising sea levels due to climate change, and uninformed beachgoers exhibiting behaviors that are not sea turtle-friendly.

 

Our lab works with multiple species of sea turtles both within the United States and internationally in Costa Rica. Specifically, our work in the U.S. has focused on the most dominant nesting species in the Southeast, the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). We have studied the factors influencing sea turtle nest success, beach habitat management, and ways to reduce anthropogenic impacts to sea turtles through education programs.