Sea turtle hatchlings rescued after wandering into storm drain in Treasure Island

TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. (WFLA) — A group of stranded sea turtle hatchlings were rescued after they wandered into a storm drain in Treasure Island.

The Treasure Island Fire Rescue said the turtles had become disoriented on Tuesday morning and wandered into the storm drain.

Crews recovered them and brought them to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

They will eventually be brought to the Gulf.

“This rescue is a good reminder of why it’s so 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.