It’s that time of the year for sea turtle nesting season here in Florida. Along the Treasure Coast, from the beginning of March to the end of October; leatherheads, loggerheads and green turtles make their way ashore to make nests and lay their eggs. The Leatherback turtles are listed as an endangered species, but this year, it is reported that they are laying a record number of nests. Wildlife specialists say it seems that the Loggerhead turtle nests are declining, but it is still too early in the season to tell. Part of the problem is the maturation rate of the turtles. It takes decades for a turtle to mature and out in the sea, scientists do not know what goes on. No numbers will be completely verified or proven right or wrong until the official end of the nesting season.

    Sea turtle biologists are doing their best to make sure that the nests are protected and that the left behind, straggling hatched baby turtles make it. The biologists and the Ecological Associates in the Treasure Coast are keeping careful watch over the beaches as well as numbers. The Leatherback turtle is the largest of all the turtles and can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. It is the fourth largest reptile in the world. Green turtles can weigh up to 400 pounds. The Loggerhead can weigh up to 300 pounds. If you are heading to the beach during the nesting season; watch out for the nests and be mindful of the eggs that have been laid there.

http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2009/jun/20/tracking-treasure-coast-turtles-leatherbacks-surge/