Beach-side residents are being urged to take part in Turtle Hour this Thursday.
The hour of darkness between 7.00pm and 8.00pm aims to raise awareness of the negative impact artificial light has on nesting sea turtles and hatchlings.
It’s a joint initiative between the Livingstone Shire Council and the Fitzroy Basin Association.
Livingstone councillor Andrea Friend says Turtle Hour provides an opportunity for everyone to play a part in protecting the local environment.
“The beautiful coastline of the Capricorn Coast supports multiple turtle nesting sites that we’re very proud of and keen to preserve,” she says.
“Everyone is invited to participate, and you don’t need to live near the beach to make a difference.
“With turtle season commencing, this is a fantastic opportunity to consider the glow you create with your household lighting and how you can reduce it to help turtles survive and thrive.
“Too much artificial lighting can deter adult turtles from nesting and confuse hatchlings.”
Fitzroy Basin Association’s Lisa Del Riccio says that urban artificial glow is a threat to Capricorn Coast marine turtles and the solution sits with community members.
“Only one in a thousand marine hatchlings will make it to adulthood and all species of marine turtles in Australia are currently threatened with extinction.
“This is a fantastic example of how many small actions can make a big difference – and a challenge we know the Capricorn Coast is ready for,” she says.
