First recorded sea turtle nest documented on U.S. West Coast

An olive ridley sea turtle laid eggs on a Southern California beach on September 16 in what NOAA described as the first recorded natural sea turtle nest of any species on the U.S. West Coast. Three days later, on September 19, another sea turtle was observed nesting near the Huntington Beach Pier, a few miles to the south. The first nest was discovered near Seal Beach in Orange County, where beachgoers initially mistook the turtle for an injured animal and called for help, prompting a lifeguard response. Lifeguards then fenced off the area and notified NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Officials from NOAA arrived to inspect the second site and build a more secure fence. It remains unclear whether one turtle or two separate animals laid the nests, NOAA said. One account reported that officials believe the same female was responsible for both nests. Both sites have been fenced, fitted with protective signage, and will be monitored by local, state, and federal partners through an incubation period that typically lasts 45 to 60 days. NOAA has urged beachgoers to keep their distance and not disturb the fencing or signage.