Sea turtles have been making their annual journey from the ocean to US beaches to lay their eggs, breaking records for nesting numbers despite concerns about climate change. Florida saw a record-breaking number of loggerhead turtle nests, with over 133,840 recorded, surpassing the previous record set in 2016. Similarly, green turtles also set a new record with at least 76,500 nests, well above the previous mark set in 2017. High numbers of sea turtle nests were also reported in South Carolina, Alabama, North Carolina, and Georgia. However, climate change poses a threat to these nesting grounds, with higher sand temperatures resulting in fewer male turtles and changes in ocean currents disrupting their journeys. Additionally, increasingly severe storms can wash away nests. The positive nesting numbers are also tempered by the fact that all seven species of sea turtles are either endangered or threatened. Only a small fraction of sea turtle hatchlings survive to adulthood due to natural threats and human interference. One stretch of Florida's Gulf Coast lost most of its 75 nests to Hurricane Idalia in August. The nesting process for female turtles occurs in a three-year cycle, leading to fluctuations in nest numbers. Climate change exacerbates these challenges by reducing beaches due to rising sea levels and causing more powerful tropical storms. Warmer air, water, and sand, as well as changes in ocean currents, also decrease the chances of survival for sea turtles. The sex of sea turtle hatchlings is determined by sand temperatures, with warmer temperatures producing more females. Researchers project that sand temperatures will increase significantly worldwide by 2100. A recent study led by a professor at Florida State University found that sea turtles may need to nest at different times to adapt to changing environmental conditions. However, the rapid rate of climate change may prevent turtles from evolving quickly enough to survive. Other factors affecting sea turtles include human-made obstacles such as seawalls, which make it difficult for turtles to find suitable nesting spots. Predators like raccoons and coyotes raid nests, and hatchlings face risks from disorienting electric lights, birds, and hungry fish. Although this year's record nesting numbers are encouraging, they may not indicate a secure future for sea turtles. Hatchling production may be compromised in the long run. The conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of these endangered creatures.