Olive Ridley Nests Mark First Recorded Sea Turtle Nesting on US West Coast

Marine safety officials in Southern California have confirmed the discovery of sea turtle eggs at two locations in Orange County, describing the nests as the first ever recorded on the US West Coast for any sea turtle species.

The nests, belonging to olive ridley turtles, were found at Huntington Beach and at a site near Seal Beach. Both areas have been fenced off to protect the eggs, which are expected to hatch within 45 to 60 days.

"This is the first time we've ever had sea turtles come to shore, lay eggs, and establish a nest here in Huntington Beach," said Trevor McDonald, Huntington Beach Marine Safety Chief. "We don't have one documented here."

McDonald said the discovery had generated considerable enthusiasm among lifeguards and residents, calling it a unique event for the community. He added that the priority now is to keep the nesting site undisturbed.

"We don't want people walking up to that nesting site," he said. "We want to provide plenty of room to keep those eggs safe and give them the best possibility for survival."

Olive ridley turtles are the smallest of the sea turtle species, with adults weighing up to about 100 pounds.

Local resident Heidi Stephen, who visited Huntington Beach with her son, described the sight of the nest as magical and said she was excited by it.

McDonald said the moment had left him smiling. "It's a special moment. It's exciting, and we're excited to see how it goes," he said.

Signs have been placed around the closed nesting area, and photographers and families have been seen observing it from a distance.