SEA TURTLE sighted at local beach (HBFD).

Several sea turtle sightings have been made along Orange County’s northern coast.

Their appearances were in the sand in Surfside, Seal Beach and Huntington Beach, two on Sept. 16 and another on Sept. 19.

In an least two of these incidents, the turtles appeared to be laying eggs. These, according to the federal National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, are the first-ever recorded natural nesting for any sea turtles on the U.S. West Coast.

Fenced perimeters have been established around the nesting sites and they will be monitored for the incubation period of 45 to 60 days

Specifically, these are called olive ridley turtles. Adults can weigh up to 100 lbs. and are up to three feet long. The life expectancy is believed to be from 30 to 50 years.

Beach-goers are cautioned keep their distance and don’t disturb the fencing or the posted signs. Anyone finding a stranded sea turtle is asked to call the NOAA hotline at (562) 506-4315.