Every year, thousands of sea turtles are affected by artificial lighting on beachfront properties. Hatchlings instinctively follow the brightest light to find the ocean, but poorly designed lighting disorients them, drawing them inland and reducing their survival rates. According to the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC), 90% of U.S. sea turtle nesting occurs on Florida beaches. Following Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) guidelines ensures these vulnerable creatures can safely reach the water.
Why Amber LEDs? Research shows that sea turtles are less affected by lighting within long wavelengths, like amber LEDs. Unlike white light, which contains disruptive blue wavelengths, amber light above 560 nanometers (nm) is less likely to confuse hatchlings. Properly shielded, low-glare amber LEDs help guide baby turtles safely to the ocean while also maintaining safety and sustainability for beachfront developments.
Bock Lighting’s Turtle-Safe Solutions
We offer two options for turtle-friendly LED lighting:
- - LVET-20W-UNV Turtle Safe LED – Universal voltage for flexible installations.
- - LVEFT-20W-UNV FWC Standard Turtle LED – Fully compliant with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) guidelines for beachfront lighting. *Note: Currently awaiting testing to re-open with FWC certification.
3 Golden Rules for Turtle Lighting (From FWC)
- 1. Keep It Low: Mount fixtures low and use minimal wattage.
- 2. Keep It Shielded: Fully direct light downward, away from the beach.
- 3. Keep It Long: Use long-wavelength light (amber, red, or orange).
Protecting sea turtles doesn't mean sacrificing functionality or aesthetics. Bock Lighting offers modules that balance compliance, safety, and style, ensuring beachfront properties are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
Contact us to learn more about our turtle-friendly lighting solutions and how they can make a difference for sea turtle conservation!
-1.png&w=3840&q=75)
