Accuracy and precision of sea-finding orientation as a function of dune proximity in hatchlings of two species of sea turtles

Context Sea turtle hatchlings generally emerge at night from nests on sand beaches and immediately orient using visual cues, which are believed to entail the difference in brightness between light seen seaward direction that duneward direction.Aim The aim of this study was understand how dune proximity affected hatchling orientations two sea species share a nesting beach 15km long 25.3±9.4m (N=215) waterline, with low moderate artificial nearby.Methods For loggerhead green turtles, we measured accuracy precision orientation, tested differences distance nest dune, investigated effect orientation.Key results We found significant decrease orientation both as increased dune. Loggerhead turtles showed similar ability when same dune.Conclusions conclude features provide important cues for beaches.Implications Restoring maintaining natural profiles, especially systems, is likely increase finding turtles.