Turtle nests found on Miss. beaches

PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. (AP) - Marine scientists have found two nesting areas for loggerhead turtles on Mississippi's beaches.

The nests have been marked with warning signs and caution tape. It is a federal offense to disturb the nests.

Biologists say large tracks in the sand show where the turtle came ashore, laid its eggs and returned to the water.

The most recent nest was discovered on the beach in Pass Christian in Harrison County. The first turtle nest was discovered in Jackson County along the beach between Ocean Springs and Gautier a few weeks ago.

Biologists say it will take 50 to 60 days for the eggs to incubate. The hatchlings will then head for the water.

Globally, the turtles are classified as threatened in some areas and endangered in others.