For many years, female sea turtles have come ashore to lay their eggs on beaches. The hatchling turtles are guided by instinct toward the light from the sky reflecting off the ocean. With increased coastal populations, artificial lights can cause disruption of behavior, injury, and death to thousands of migrating birds, sea turtles, other reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and invertebrates.
Marine lighting company DRSA, based in Palm Beach County, Florida, developed red and amber colors in line with leading marine biologist principles, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. In 2014, the company introduced a small LED “Bullet” light designed for the rugged marine environment. The Nova (amber) and Titan (red) were certified as Marine-Life Friendly by the FWC in 2015.
To become certified the following criteria had to be met:
- Light must be downward directed
- Maximum mounting height of 12 inches for any floor about the ground floor, 24 inches from the ground floor
- Use long wavelength light sources (DRSA amber and red color temperatures fall within the wavelength specification)
These versatile lights can be used for restaurants, walkways, and accent lighting in areas required to meet FWC requirements to protect marine life along the coast. DRSA, established in 1989, continues to utilize extensive experience and expertise to offer customized lighting solutions for marine and recreational vehicle applications. Visit www.drsa.com for more information, or call 561-842-5704.