May 23, 2011

It’s sea turtle season on Tybee Island, and that means we are more conscious than ever about how our environment affects these amazing and beautiful creatures! It is so very important, especially for cottages right on the beach, to be aware of light pollution. Light pollution- from both indoor and outdoor sources -can have a negative impact on any nocturnal wildlife, especially our beloved sea turtles. Brightly lit areas discourage females from nesting as well as disorient new hatchlings, drawing them away from the ocean and toward dangers-a-plenty. If you are visiting Tybee during sea turtle season from May 1st thru Oct 31st, the most important thing to remember  is that it is Lights Out for Sea Turtles time!

Mermaid Cottages cares immensely about this cause and we do everything we can to insure our beach front cottages- Doyle’s on the Beach and Crabby Jo’s -are super sea turtle friendly! We even support the Tybee Sea Turtle Project through sales of our very own Mermaid Morning Bliss Coffee! You know, these precious marine treasures face enough natural dangers as it is, so we need to do everything possible to get them their best chance at a long, healthy life!

So, how in the world can you make a difference? Well, check out this wonderful list of simple steps from Defenders.org!

Having alternative, sea turtle friendly lighting is a great way to have lights where you need them and still be sea turtle friendly, but it’s just a good habit to close shades after dark, remove all obstacles from the beach, and turn off lights in rooms that aren’t in use. And hey, those good green habits no matter where you are!

We are very proud of our efforts, and the efforts of Tybee Island, to be sea turtle friendly! We hope you are too!