Effects of light pollution by car headlights on loggerhead hatchlings in Cape Verde

Abstract

Many sea turtle nesting areas are experiencing a tremendous growth in tourism during the last decades that will likely continue in the near future. Many touristic activities involve light pollution by the increasing presence of vehicles close or even over the beaches. Vehicles can drive towards or along the beaches and even stay with the lights turned on illuminating during prolonged periods of time significant zones with sea turtle nesting activity. Thus, it is important to evaluate the impact of car light pollution on both nesting females and newborns in their search of the sea. </p>