Human choices, small changes can impact the survival of young turtles

Hawaiian green sea turtles, known as honu, are currently in the peak nesting season, and beachgoers are needed to help ensure that the hatchlings reach the sea safely.

Each summer, adult female sea turtles return to Hawaiʻi’s sandy beaches to lay their eggs, with the weeks following being critical for the nests. Honu nests typically take about 60 days to hatch, although the exact incubation period can vary depending on the nest’s temperature.

Warmer temperatures can shorten the incubation time, while cooler temperatures may lengthen it. The temperature also determines the sex of the sea turtles: warmer temperatures produce females, and cooler temperatures produce males.

After emerging, hatchlings use the brightness of the stars and moonlight to navigate from the beach to the open ocean — a journey that can be disrupted by human activities such as driving on the beach or distracting lights.

Since 2020, nesting activity by Hawaiian green sea turtles has increased annually across the islands, providing a hopeful sign for this threatened species. With this positive growth, beachgoers have a greater responsibility to help ensure hatchlings reach the sea safely. Small actions can significantly impact the survival of these young turtles.

To support honu survival, beachgoers should maintain a safe distance from turtles and nests. Stay at least 10 feet away from nesting sea turtles or marked nests, and call the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) hotline if hatchlings or new nests are discovered.

Artificial lighting disorients hatchlings by leading them away from the ocean. Consequently, turn off lights visible from the beach during the nesting and hatching season.

Every hatchling faces slim survival odds, as only about one in 1,000 will reach adulthood. Human choices and small changes can significantly impact the survival of young turtles.

On Oʻahu, Mālama i Nā Honu, a volunteer-based nonprofit organization, collaborates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect sea turtles during nesting season. They monitor known nesting sites, conduct evening and nighttime nest watches, and work with state and federal agencies to mark and protect nests.

Their dedicated efforts help reduce human disturbance and increase hatchling survival chances. To learn more or to get involved, visit the Mālama i Nā Honu website.

To report hatching turtles, as well as dead or injured turtles, call the NOAA hotline at 888-256-9840. To report violations, contact the Department of Land and Natural Resources Enforcement at 808-643-3567.

For more information on sea turtles and volunteering opportunities, visit the Department of Land and Natural Resources website.