The organization Siete Quillas is calling on the public to respect sea turtle nests on beaches during the Noche de San Juan celebrations. Spokesperson Evelyn Vázquez asked people to maintain their distance if they observe a sea turtle arriving or hatchlings emerging from nests, and to not use white lights or disturb them. Vázquez also requested that visitors to Ocean Park beach take their trash with them and not use temporary fences around the nests to hang their belongings.
Additionally, she advised against placing loud music speakers near the nests. The organization reported that this season has been successful for sea turtle nesting, with 17 nests in the San Juan area, despite incidents of disturbance by the public. A tagged turtle named 'Esther' has returned and laid four nests since 2024.
Siete Quillas will have groups monitoring the nests tonight to ensure their protection.