Gulf Shores, Ala. – (GSN) – Sea turtles are a treasured part of the local beach community. The Alabama beaches are shared with the endangered species and residents inform visitors to stay aware while in the turtle's environment.

World Sea Turtle Day is a global observance that raises awareness of the threats sea turtles face. According to Rachael Holdsworth of the Share the Beach group, three species nest along Alabama's Gulf Coast: the Loggerhead, the Green Sea Turtle, and the Kemp's Ridley. Seven species of sea turtles exist worldwide, and most are listed as endangered or critically endangered. The day honors Dr. Archie Carr, born in Mobile, Alabama, and widely known as the "father of sea turtle research and conservation."

World Sea Turtle Day falls on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, marking the birthday of Dr. Archie Carr, born on June 16, 1909. The observance began in 2000 by conservation groups, including American Tortoise Rescue. Carr played a major role in early sea turtle research and helped shape what became the Sea Turtle Conservancy.

The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge will host a drop-in event from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Mobile Street beach access. Visitors can walk onto the beach and find staff using a UTV. Staff will explain nesting activity and demonstrate how a sea turtle crawl is documented.

Parking at the Mobile Street lot is limited, and there is little shade. The event will be canceled in bad weather. Visitors should check the refuge’s Facebook page for updates that morning. Biting insects may be present.

Loggerheads are the most common nesting sea turtles in Alabama. Females come ashore at night to lay 100 to 120 eggs. After nesting, they return to the Gulf. The nesting season runs from May 1 through October 31.

Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles are the rarest in the world and are critically endangered. Unlike other species, they often nest during the day. In 2025, the first Alabama nest was a Kemp’s Ridley Nest recorded on April 30 at Fort Morgan.

Green sea turtles nest less frequently in Alabama but are still present. In 2025, one hybrid nest involving a Green sea turtle was confirmed. That year, 96 nests were documented statewide. More than 6,300 hatchlings reached the water.

Sea turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. It is illegal to disturb nests or shine lights on nesting turtles. Artificial light can confuse Sea Turtles, leading them away from the Gulf.

Residents and visitors can report sea turtle sightings or nests by calling the Alabama Sea Turtle Hotline at 1-866-732-8878. You can find more information on the Share the Beach website.