Turtle watchers release final numbers for 2026 nesting season

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fla. (WWSB) - The final data from the 2026 sea turtle nesting season have been released, noting an average year with 460 total nests documented.Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch also noted hatchling production was down, probably from beach erosion and water intrusion, and an increased presence of coyotes that prey on nests.“Disorientations (adults and hatchlings going landward instead of seaward which leads to unnecessary energy expenditure and potential harm due to artificial lighting) remains very high,” the report said.Hatchlings that make it to the water have a 1 in 1,000 chance of surviving 25-35 years to adulthood and this may reduce their chances even more, the report said.Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch will spend the next few months going through the data from this year to check for accuracy and then compiling data for the county and state. AMITW will continue to provide educational programs to schools and community groups and will be present at events including