NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsJuly 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 News (WTVT) — Local NewsWhy It Matters
The installation of 2,500 amber light fixtures, primarily in Pinellas County, changes the nighttime lighting environment for coastal residents and visitors to reduce hatchling mortality rates.
Key Facts
- Duke Energy has replaced over 2,500 coastal light fixtures statewide with amber lighting.
- 91% of the amber light fixture conversions are located within Pinellas County.
- Amber lighting is used because its longer wavelength is less attractive to sea turtle hatchlings than standard white light.
- Standard white lighting causes hatchlings to become disoriented, leading them into hazardous areas like storm drains, pools, and roads.
- Beach visitors are advised to use amber or red flashlights instead of white light when near nesting sites after sunset.
Who's Mentioned
locationPinellas County“Primary location for 91% of the fixture conversions.”organizationClearwater Marine Aquarium“Conservation group monitoring nesting sites and hatchling safety.”locationTampa Bay“Geographic area where lighting conversions are occurring.”personCarley Oakley“Nesting supervisor at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.”personMichael Smith“Engineering technical support specialist for Duke Energy.”organizationDuke Energy“Utility company responsible for replacing coastal light fixtures.”organizationSea Turtle Conservancy“Conservation group partnering on the lighting project.”personEmily Wooley“Representative from the Sea Turtle Conservancy.”