Stranded sea turtle hatchlings saved after wandering down storm drain
FLORIDA —
A group of stranded sea turtle hatchlings is one step closer to making their way back to the Gulf after being rescued from a storm drain in Florida.
Treasure Island Fire Rescue said on Sept. 16, a group of sea turtle hatchlings had “become disoriented” and wandered into a nearby storm drain.
Photos shared by the fire rescue showed crews pulling the hatchlings to safety.
Treasure Island Fire Rescue
Officials said the sea turtles were turned over to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which will see that they make it home to the Gulf.
The fire rescue said the incident serves as a good reminder of why it’s important for residents and businesses to keep the beach dark at night and use only sea turtle-friendly lighting.
“Bright or misdirected lights can disorient hatchlings and lead them away from the water, just like what happened here,” Treasure Island Fire Rescue said.