Hilton Head, SC, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The sea turtle nesting season on Hilton Head Island has concluded with 237 nests recorded, falling short of the expected 350. Adverse weather, including cold temperatures and storms, affected nesting conditions. Despite challenges, conservation efforts continue, and the community remains hopeful for a brighter future for local sea turtle populations.
Hilton Head, SC – The sea turtle nesting season on Hilton Head Island has officially concluded, having recorded a total of 237 sea turtle nests. This year’s count falls short of the anticipated 350 nests, although it is a slight improvement from last year’s total of 204 nests.
The recent nesting period ended after two weeks without any new nests being laid, a situation that Executive Director Amber Kuehn attributed to the adverse weather conditions experienced throughout the season. Factors such as unusually cold temperatures, including the first snowfall in eight years during January, have contributed to a lower number of nests. Such weather hampers food sources for sea turtles, like crabs, fish, and shrimp, which are crucial for the turtles to gather the necessary energy to nest.
Sea turtles typically return to the same nesting areas every two years and can be identified using DNA tracking methods. This allows scientists to estimate future nesting numbers and monitor turtle populations effectively. To produce around 120 eggs in several nests each summer, sea turtles require sufficient food resources, which have been impacted by the weather conditions this year.
Additionally, a series of storms, including Hurricane Erin, created difficult beach conditions. These conditions were unfavorable for hatchlings, potentially leading to decreased survival rates as nests became overly saturated with water. Despite these challenges, the overall hatchling emergence rate is expected to stay within normal ranges.
Throughout the season, approximately 25% of the nests had to be relocated due to beach renourishment projects aimed at restoring nesting habitats. This process is labor-intensive but essential for maintaining safe environments for turtle nesting. The highest recorded nesting season on Hilton Head occurred in 2019, with an impressive count of 463 nests. Observers are hopeful that the 2026 season may approach this record.
In remembrance of the island hospitality leader Jay Wiendl, a special nest has been dedicated in his honor, with a plaque serving as a tribute. Wiendl passed away earlier this year at the age of 50, marking a personal loss for the community.
The sea turtle nesting season on Hilton Head extends from May to October, with the closing of this season providing valuable insights into the effects of climate on local wildlife and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.
Challenges Faced During the Season
- Weather Conditions: The first snow in eight years, cold temperatures, and storms negatively impacted nesting.
- Food Sources: Cold weather influenced food availability for sea turtles, affecting their reproductive success.
- Beach Conditions: Rough beach conditions from storms impeded hatchling survival and necessitated nest relocations.
Looking Ahead
Conservation efforts are ongoing, and with predictions indicating a recovery in nest numbers in future seasons, the community remains hopeful for the return of the vibrant sea turtle populations that have long graced Hilton Head.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the total number of sea turtle nests recorded this season on Hilton Head?
A total of 237 sea turtle nests were recorded this season.
How does this compare to previous nesting seasons?
This year’s count is lower than the expected 350 nests and reflects an improvement over last year’s count of 204 nests.
What are the factors affecting sea turtle nesting this year?
Adverse weather conditions, including cold temperatures and storms, affected food sources and nesting conditions.
What is the typical sea turtle nesting season timeframe in South Carolina?
The nesting season for sea turtles in South Carolina generally runs from May to October.
Key Features of the Sea Turtle Nesting Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Nests Recorded | 237 nests |
| Expected Nests | 350 nests |
| Last Year’s Nests | 204 nests |
| Season Duration | May to October |
| Relocated Nests | 25% of nests |
| Highest Recorded Season | 463 nests in 2019 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bald Eagles George and Gracie Return to Hilton Head Island
George and Gracie Return for 14th Nesting Season
Hilton Head: The Ideal Family Beach Escape for Charlotte Families
Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of Jay Wiendl
Tiki Hut Beach Bar Earns Top Spot in National Rankings
Hilton Head Island Named Top Beach Bar Destination
Hilton Head Island Celebrates Beach Recognition and Dog Restrictions
Discover Charming Small Towns in South Carolina for Your Summer Getaway
Hilton Head Island Implements New Dog Ban on Fish Haul Beach
Hilton Head Island Enhances Beach Accessibility for Memorial Day
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Sea Turtle
- WJCL
- Google Search: Sea turtle nesting Hilton Head
- Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sea Turtle
- Explore Beaufort SC
- Google News: Hilton Head sea turtle nests
- WSAV
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
