Because Florida's shorelines provide important nesting habitats for several species of threatened and endangered sea turtles, beachgoers can have a significant impact on the success of this year’s nesting season.

It’s that time of year again and baby turtles are hatching and running for the ocean in Saint John’s County Beaches.

As we enjoy our beaches and shorelines this Fourth of July weekend, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is sharing a reminder that nesting season is underway for our state’s imperiled sea turtles, shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds.

Wednesday marks the official start of sea turtle nesting season, which means turtles will be burying their eggs in nests up and down the coastline.

The Naval Station Mayport reports that Sea Turtle Patrol volunteers discovered nest 52 at NAVSTA Mayport Friday morning.

With sea turtle nesting season underway, chances are you know to keep an eye out for marked-off nests while you’re walking on the beach.