NewsFOX 13 Tampa BayJuly 29, 2026Pinellas
Amber Streetlights Installed to Protect Baby Sea Turtles in Tampa Bay
Utility crews and conservation groups are replacing standard white streetlights with amber-colored fixtures along Tampa Bay beaches to prevent sea turtle hatchlings from becoming disoriented. The amber lights allow hatchlings to navigate toward the Gulf of Mexico using natural moonlight and starlight instead of being drawn toward artificial light sources.
Read the full story at FOX 13 Tampa BayWhy It Matters
Residents and visitors in Pinellas County will see a change in street lighting color along coastal areas, and beachgoers are encouraged to use red or amber flashlights at night to avoid disrupting .
Key Facts
- Duke Energy has replaced over 2,500 coastal lighting fixtures statewide with amber-colored bulbs.
- 91% of the converted lighting fixtures are located within Pinellas County.
- Standard white lighting disorients sea turtle hatchlings, causing them to wander into hazardous areas like storm drains, pools, and roads.
- Amber lighting uses longer wavelengths that are less attractive to hatchlings, allowing them to follow natural light from the moon and stars to the Gulf.
- Beach visitors are advised to use only amber or red flashlights when visiting beaches after sunset.
Who's Mentioned
locationPinellas County“Location of 91% of the converted lighting fixtures.”organizationClearwater Marine Aquarium“Conservation group monitoring nesting sites and hatchling safety.”locationTampa Bay“Primary region for the lighting conversion project.”personCarley Oakley“Nesting supervisor at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.”personMichael Smith“Engineering technical support specialist for Duke Energy.”organizationDuke Energy“Utility company responsible for replacing streetlights with amber fixtures.”organizationSea Turtle Conservancy“Conservation group partnering on the lighting project.”personEmily Wooley“Representative from the Sea Turtle Conservancy.”