Turtle Nesting & Shorebird Protection on Anna Maria Island
If you're spending time on Anna Maria Island—especially while staying at Bridgewalk Resort or Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort—you might notice roped-off sections of beach, small signs in the sand, or even volunteers checking certain areas early in the morning. It's all part of something really special: protecting the island's sea turtles and shorebirds.
Here's what's going on, in simple terms—and how you can help without it feeling like work.
🐢 Sea Turtle Nesting Season
Every year, sea turtles return to these beaches to lay their eggs. The most common species you'll find here is the Loggerhead sea turtle.
What actually happens?
From May through October, female turtles come ashore at night. They dig a nest, lay their eggs, cover them up, and quietly head back into the Gulf.
About 6-8 weeks later, the hatchlings emerge—usually at night—and make their way toward the water.
Why It Matters
It's an incredible process, but also a delicate one.
- Baby turtles rely on natural light to find the ocean—bright lights from buildings or phones can confuse them
- Beach obstacles like chairs, holes, or toys can block their path
- Getting too close can scare a nesting turtle back into the water before she lays eggs
Those marked areas you see on the beach are there to give nests a safe space to develop.
How You Can Help (It's Simple)
Even small actions go a long way:
- Turn off or dim lights at night if you're near the beach
- Fill in holes and flatten sandcastles before heading back to your room
- Bring in chairs, umbrellas, and beach gear each evening
- Respect posted nesting areas and keep a safe distance
- If you spot turtles or hatchlings, enjoy the moment—but don't approach
🐦 Shorebirds Nest Here Too
It's not just turtles—Anna Maria Island is also home to nesting shorebirds like the Snowy Plover and Least Tern.
What makes them different?
These birds lay their eggs directly on the sand, often blending in so well that you wouldn't notice them unless you knew what to look for. Their nesting season typically runs from March through August.
Why They Need Protection
Because their nests are so exposed:
- It's easy to accidentally step on eggs
- Dogs or people getting too close can scare off the parents
- Chicks can wander and become vulnerable
That's why you'll see small fenced or roped-off areas along the beach.
How to Be a Good Beach Neighbor
- Stay outside posted nesting zones
- Keep dogs leashed and away from protected areas
- Avoid chasing or getting too close to birds
- Watch your step, especially in quieter parts of the beach
If a bird starts calling loudly or acting injured, it's likely trying to lead you away from a nest—best to give it space.
The Bottom Line
One of the best things about staying on Anna Maria Island—whether at Bridgewalk Resort or Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort—is being so close to nature. With that comes a shared responsibility to protect it.
The good news? It doesn't take much. Just a little awareness goes a long way in helping sea turtles and shorebirds thrive. For more information, visit Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch & Shorebird Monitoring
And if you're lucky enough to witness hatchlings making their way to the water or spot tiny shorebirds along the sand, it's the kind of moment that makes your trip truly unforgettable.
The sea turtle nesting season runs from May through October. During this time, female Loggerhead turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. It's a special time to witness nature's wonders while staying at Bridgewalk Resort or Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort.
Stay outside posted nesting zones and avoid getting too close to birds. It's important to watch your step, especially in quieter parts of the beach.