NMB protected Endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtle nest #12

 NMB STP Volunteers have found a beautiful long incoming and outgoing crawl and body pit. While walking closer to the body pit(nest), there are indications that she may have been interfered with while nesting.

The body pit is longer than normally seen. There are also foot prints right in the middle of the body pit. While some people who were on the beach confirmed some of the thoughts that this Sea Turtle had been interfered with.

Please remember, all Sea Turtles are endangered. It is illegal to shine lights on, touch, harass or hinder in any way.  It is fortunate that this Sea Turtle did nest. Who knows what this stress could have put on this poor nesting mother.  When nesting they are out of their element, it is dark, and their defenses are down. They are made to glide through the ocean waters.  When on land, they have to drag their heavy body up out of the water, crawl up the beach to a nesting spot. Digging a hole around 18" to 2 feet sometimes deeper using only her two back flippers. Laying her eggs, burying them up and trying to cover up her egg chamber before returning back to the ocean where she is now in her element.  Please let all Sea Turtles nest in peace.

A beautiful incoming and outgoing crawl

Thankfully this nesting mother has nested, despite seeing signs that she had been bothered while nesting.

NMB STP Volunteers shine as they share their knowledge, passion and commitment, helping to spread the word about the Endangered Sea Turtle Species.  Many people coming to the nest do not know about the Sea Turtle nesting on our beaches. They have many questions. The knowledge and appreciation for the turtles they get today will stay long after they leave the beach. This will help in the survival of the endangered Sea Turtle species.

Because this nest is in the middle of a very busy beach, many light from high-rises, the eggs will be safely relocated to a safer part of the beach. 

140 eggs are safely relocated

  A cage is put around to help protect the eggs from anything sharing the beaches with us.  Poles and rope with signs indicating this is a protected Sea Turtle nest is also put around the cage.

Protected Endangered Sea Turtle nest #12

All Sea Turtle are endangered, they are federally and state protected, special guidelines, training and permits are required to work with nesting Sea Turtles, nest, hatchlings and stranded Sea Turtles.

If you encounter a nesting Sea Turtle in NMB or Briarcliffe areas, please call the NMB STP Hotline.

NMB STP HOTLINE

843-213-9074

ANYTIME DAY OR NIGHT