Sea Turtle Nests Nearly Wiped Out by Debby

David Yates called it a tragedy.

The last few years seemed pretty good for rebounding sea turtle populations — nesting numbers were steady, the president of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium said.

Then this year, already there were about 120 nests, up from about 70 last year, Yates said.

But after high , Yates estimates about 85 percent of the nests were wiped out.

“Beach erosion happens,” Yates said.

About 100 volunteers monitor Pinellas beaches during the sea turtle nesting season, which started May 1. Nests are their way to the water by moonlight.

There still is hope for this season, Yates said. About 12 new nests since Debby cleared last week have been found. Each nest can hold up to 120 eggs.

Sea turtle nests are not the only wildlife effected by Debby. The storm may have Florida, experts say.

If you find a turtle nest on the beach don’t disturb it. If it is unmarked, call the  at 727-441-1790. Check.