ST. KITTS — The St. Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network is reminding residents and visitors that sea turtle nesting season, along with the nesting and hatching season for seabirds and shorebirds, is currently underway across several beaches on the island.
The organisation recently shared images of newly identified nests at North Friars Beach and is appealing to the public to help protect these vulnerable animals and their habitats.
Officials are specifically asking beachgoers visiting North Friars Beach and Keys Beach to keep activities — particularly dog walking — along the high tide line in order to avoid disturbing nesting areas.
According to the Network, newly hatched turtles and birds are extremely vulnerable during this stage of development. If hatchlings are forced from their nests too early, stress and exposure to the hot sand can significantly reduce their chances of survival.
The organization announced that signs will be installed next week to clearly mark nesting zones and help raise awareness among beach users.
The St. Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network is also encouraging members of the public to assist by spreading awareness about the importance of protecting nesting sites during this critical period.
Residents and visitors with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the organization for further information.
The Network emphasized that community cooperation plays a vital role in safeguarding sea turtles and shorebirds and ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the island’s rich marine and coastal biodiversity.