Lights Out

On the way to the seashore, Amy noticed a Lights Out for Sea Turtles bumper sticker on the van in front of her family's car. "Look at that bumper sticker," said Amy. "What does it mean?"

Dad explained, "People are becoming more aware that all sea turtle species are threatened. Their numbers are dropping due to hunting, fishing, and development. They are caught in commercial fishing nets and injured by boat propellers."

Mom added, "Back in the whaling days, sea turtles were hunted for their meat, fat, and shells. People along coastlines gathered up turtle eggs for food. Tortoiseshell material made from sea turtle shell was used to decorate combs, brushes, and other items."

"Today, beach development is another big problem. Sea turtles return to the same beach area to nest where they were born. Beach areas are being built up with houses, hotels, stores, and restaurants. There is too much human activity, and sea turtles have nowhere to nest," Dad continued.

Mom told us, "In many beach areas, laws prevent lights from being shined on the beach. Light confuses young turtle hatchlings, causing them to crawl towards the light and away from the water. Baby sea turtles are often killed crossing roads.

"Some state aquariums operate sea turtle rescue hospitals to help injured or sick sea turtles found on the beach," Dad chimed in.

"Let's get one of those bumper stickers for our car," suggested Amy. She wondered if they would see a sea turtle nest on their favorite beach this year.









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