eLifespaces

Until this weekend, the term “light pollution” was predominately unknown to our group of students and parents on a Labor Day weekend science field trip to learn about Loggerhead turtles. As we explored Botany Island under the supervision of noted wildlife biologist, Meg Hoyle, she explained the nesting habits of these reptiles – and more importantly the instinctive signals that lights triggers in their species.

Loggerhead sea turtles are one of only seven sea turtle species in the world and listed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a threatened species. Loggerheads are the South Carolina state reptile and a species that nests along our beaches. From May until August, the females crawl ashore (a cycle that occurs every other year) to deposit their eggs. Hatching occurs about 60 days after nesting. During this time, artificial light causes specific behavioral patterns in both mother and hatchlings that are detrimental to survival.

• Use lighting control systems, timers, occupancy sensors, or other controls to extinguish lighting when it is not needed
• Engage the services of lighting design professionals to assess objectives
• Choose better light fixtures and lamps that direct light to the needed areas
• Better training for commercial building and property managers
• Replace “older” fixtures with newer, efficient models

To learn more, visit http://www.ltlonline.org or contact Meg Hoyle with Learning through Loggerheads at their facilities on Edisto Island, SC.