Physiological Effects of Disorientation in Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and Green (Chelonia mydas) Sea Turtle Hatchlings

Following nest emergence, sea turtle hatchling dispersal can be disrupted by
artificial light or skyglow from urban areas. Mis- or disorientation increases exposure to
predation, thermal stress, and dehydration, could consume valuable energy, and thus
influence the likelihood of survival. This study utilized laboratory simulations of
extended crawl distances and field observations to investigate the energy cost of
disorientation crawling on loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Chelonia mydas) sea
turtle hatchlings and the impact on the subsequent swim frenzy. Extended crawls
increased oxygen consumption, decreased plasma glucose, and reduced green hatchling
swim performance following a 200m crawl. Surprisingly, plasma lactate concentrations
did not increase with crawl distance, likely due to frequent rest periods that would,
however, increase time on the beach and thus exposure to predators. This research may
provide managers with physiological data to determine best practices for sea turtle
conservation and adds to the biological knowledge of these animals.