Longboat Key Turtle Watch discovers island's first nest of 2025

One loggerhead sea turtle couldn’t wait for the official start of nesting season and laid one of the first nests of 2025 on Longboat Key. 

Longboat Key Turtle Watch volunteers found the nest the morning of April 26, marking the first nest on the island and one of the first nests within Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium’s jurisdiction. 

Connie Schindewolf, one of Longboat Key Turtle Watch’s longest-tenured patrollers, led the patrol that found the first nest of 2025. 

“It’s always exciting,” Schindewolf said. “It was extra exciting because it was the first nest on Longboat.”

Schindewolf began walking with Longboat Key Turtle Watch in 1983 when she would vacation on Longboat Key in the summer. Then, when she moved to the island in 1999, she became fully involved with the organization. 

According to Mote, the first nest on Longboat Key was also among the first recorded by Mote. Mote’s coverage area spans from Longboat Key to Venice. 

Courtesy image

As of April 25, no nests were recorded within Mote's area. Then, on April 26, Mote reported the first three nests of the season — one each on Longboat Key, Casey Key and Siesta Key. 

“Typically, once you have one or two nests, it starts to pick up and build until June,” said Tim Thurman, president of Longboat Key Turtle Watch. “That’s when it peaks.” 

Sea turtle nesting season is from May 1 to Oct. 31. During that time, Longboat Key properties must abide by the town’s sea turtle protection ordinances. These regulations include shielding or turning off lights visible from the beach and ensuring the removal of beach furniture during the night.  

Longboat Key Turtle Watch hosts public beach walks in June and July for anyone interested in learning more about the organization and possibly spotting some nests. For more information, visit LBKTurtleWatch.com.

Correction: This article has been updated to reflect Mote reported three nests were found on April 26.