Days of wind-driven surf and erosion are taking their toll on South Florida sea turtle nests. Winds in the 20-30 mph range with higher gusts are creating pounding surf. The waves are running onto the beaches, inundating near-shore sea turtle nests. Sea turtles developing in eggs breathe through a membrane and shell. Flooding can drown them. The erosive force of the waves can strip away protective sand, leaving the eggs vulnerable to seawater and predators. Fortunately, many sea turtles dig nests and lay their eggs away from water's edge up in high dunes, reducing the likelihood that they will be swamped by ocean water.

This video recorded in Delray Beach, Florida, features sea turtle nests at water's edge and up in the dunes.