Conservationists move threatened sea turtle nests to safer sand to save eggs from heat and tides; a 2-year study found lower hatching success, smaller hatchlings and just 8% males in one season

Relocating vulnerable sea turtle nests can lead to unexpected negative consequences. When nests are moved to warmer areas, the sex ratio of hatchlings skews heavily towards females. Additionally, even nests placed in shaded locations yield smaller hatchlings with reduced physical capabilities. Therefore, effective nest relocation must consider various environmental factors beyond just temperature to ensure…