An olive ridley sea turtle is nesting on the West Coast for the first time in recorded history. In the past week, two nests have been discovered in Orange County, with the first found in Seal Beach and the second in Huntington Beach. NOAA Fisheries believes the same turtle may have laid eggs at both locations before returning to the ocean. Olive ridley sea turtles are considered vulnerable and are protected under federal law. Both nesting sites have been cordoned off with fencing, and signs have been posted warning the public to stay away from the areas. Wildlife officials say protecting the nests is critical because the eggs and hatchlings are vulnerable to human activity and other threats. Experts also believe there could be additional nests that have not yet been discovered. Officials are asking beachgoers to avoid disturbing the fenced areas and to report any sightings of sea turtles or additional nesting activity to authorities.
