Reminder: It’s sea turtle nesting season; here’s what you need to know

ORLANDO, Fla. — If you’re headed to the beach this summer, stay aware of sea turtle nests.

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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is reminding everyone to give the nests space and don’t disturb them.

Florida beaches provide a nesting habitat for several species of federally threatened and endangered sea turtles, including loggerhead, leatherback and green sea turtles, with occasional nesting by federally endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, FWC said.

“All species of sea turtles and their nests are protected and should not be disturbed - it is illegal to harm, harass or take nesting sea turtles, their eggs or hatchlings,” FWC said.

WATCH: Central Florida Spotlight: Sea turtles

If you see someone disturbing a sea turtle nest or see an injured, dead or harassed sea turtle, you should report it to FWC at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Here are tips that can help save sea turtle lives, according to FWC.

READ: Sea turtle nesting season is underway: here are ways to help protect them

Do not touch or disturb sea turtles or their nests.
Do not disturb the dune system or plants.
Do not walk on the dunes.
When driving at the beach, use the designated traffic lanes and parking areas.
Do not use flash photography at night.
Do not use cell phones to light your way at night.
Use only red LED flashlights; they are less visible to turtle eyes.
After a day at the beach, flatten sandcastles, fill in holes and take your chairs and equipment with you.
Dispose of trash and recyclables in proper receptacles.
Do not use fireworks.

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