Conservation Groups Claim Florida Resorts Are Violating Sea Turtle Protections

Two nonprofit organizations have issued a 60-day notice of intent to sue Hilton Hotels, Bahia Mar Resorts, and Suntex Marinas under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for allegedly causing harm ("take") to loggerhead and green sea turtles in Florida. The claim centers on artificial lighting from the Resorts, which is said to disorient hatchlings, causing them to move away from the ocean and increasing the risk of death.

The nonprofits cite over 3,000 disorientation incidents since 2016 and propose corrective actions, such as shielding lights, using amber-colored LED bulbs, and installing window treatments. If the Resorts do not make changes, the groups intend to proceed with legal action. The case may set a precedent for how artificial lighting is managed in coastal developments to ensure ESA compliance.

https://www.endangeredspecieslawandpolicy.com/environmental-groups-allege-illegal-take-of-sea-turtles-by-florida-resorts