New TikTok trend leaves a bad impression on Gulf Coast beaches

MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) — A new TikTok trend is threatening wildlife and leaving a bad impression on beachgoers along the Gulf Coast; The challenge is to see how deep you can dig a hole along the shore.

Holes up to five feet deep and four feet wide are becoming too popular.

Officials says they don't mind visitors digging holes, but they need to fill them in before they leave because it poses a danger to things like sea turtles.

"We have moms on the beach at night. We have babies going to the water at night. They face so many threats already. This is one small thing we can all do to help them." said Kelly Sloan/Coastal Wildlife Director

Experts say the holes also pose a danger to humans, especially if they're walking at nighttime, so its best to only leave behind footprints.