Turtle, bird enthusiasts worried about fireworks

Black Skimmers are currently hatching along Longboat Key beaches.

Turtle watch and shorebird enthusiasts are concerned about how the fireworks and increased foot traffic on Longboat Key beaches may be harmful to turtle and shorebird nests. This year is the first year since 2006 that sea turtles, endangered least terns and snowy plovers have all nested in this area at one time. The groups that feverishly protect and monitor these creatures are weary about the nests being disturbed by unaware beachgoers and illegal fireworks being shot off. Even though the nesting areas are marked and roped off, it is dark and can be easy to mistakenly run over a nest.

Volunteers will be out on the beach all weekend talking to people and monitoring the nests. Turtle nests are indicated by orange tape roped off with wooden stakes.

Beachgoers are encouraged to attend one of three professional fireworks shows hosted by the Chiles Restaurant Group. Mar Vista will be hosting its Second Annual Fireworks Celebration on the bayside of North Longboat Key July 2. Look for the 17th Annual Fireworks Extravaganza at the Beachhouse Restaurant July 3, and the weekend Finale will take place at the Sandbar Restaurant July 4. All firework shows start soon after dark.

If anyone sees a disturbed nest, a distressed turtle or bird or accidentally disturbs a nest, they are asked to immediately call the 24-hour hotline at 941-778-5638. If anyone happens to accidentally disturb a nest and the stakes or roping get removed, they are asked not to try and re-stake the area, as the nests are mapped and re-staking may inadvertently rupture one of the delicate eggs.