News Summary
The 2025 sea turtle nesting season has commenced on Folly Beach with the first loggerhead nest laid on April 30. Volunteers are gearing up to protect nesting turtles along South Carolina’s beaches. Concerns arise over potential impacts from colder weather and nesting declines, especially in Hilton Head. Conservation efforts are underway with over 1,500 trained volunteers monitoring nests across the state. Community participation is crucial to protect these endangered species and their habitats.
Folly Beach, South Carolina – The 2025 sea turtle nesting season has officially kicked off on Folly Beach, with the first loggerhead turtle laying its nest on April 30, just one day shy of the official season start on May 1. This early arrival marks the beginning of a critical six-month period during which hundreds of dedicated volunteers will work to protect these endangered species across South Carolina’s beaches.
South Carolina is home to four species of nesting sea turtles: loggerheads, greens, Kemp’s ridleys, and leatherbacks, all of which are classified as endangered or threatened. In the previous year, a record 4,818 nests were laid across the state, showcasing a significant effort for the conservation of these marine creatures.
Despite the promising numbers from last year, concerns have arisen regarding the future of nesting turtles, particularly following a cold snap in January. The drop in temperature raised worries about depleted food sources available for turtles, which could impact their nesting habits. Additionally, the Hilton Head area has experienced three consecutive seasons of lower-than-average nesting, leading to increased vigilance among conservationists.
From May through October, over 1,500 trained volunteers and biologists will patrol South Carolina’s beaches, monitoring and protecting the sea turtle nests. Each nest represents a crucial endeavor for survival, as these turtles face numerous challenges from their environment and human activity.
The University of South Carolina-Beaufort has resumed vital sea turtle monitoring and conservation programs on Prichards Island, despite facing logistical challenges. Led by Kim Ritchie, these efforts have garnered support from 50 volunteers and 15 students. However, the threat of rapid erosion on Prichards Island requires quick action, including relocating nests to safeguard eggs from becoming submerged.
Similar erosion issues confront Hunting Island, which has seen a reduction in available nesting spaces this year. Last season, approximately 120 nests were laid on Hunting Island, and volunteers are anticipating similar numbers for the current year, yet they are also urged to manage registrations more strictly to maintain effective conservation practices.
While Hilton Head lures around 1.5 million visitors annually, educating beachgoers about the importance of sharing the shore with nesting sea turtles is crucial. Visitors are encouraged to help maintain clean beaches by filling in holes and turning off outside lights at night to prevent confusing hatchlings as they make their way to the water.
Historically, the number of sea turtle nests can fluctuate yearly, a dynamic that often sees record seasons following lower nesting years due to the cyclical nature of nesting behavior. Over the last decade, however, there is a favorable trend of increasing nests in the Southeast, suggesting that ongoing recovery efforts may indeed be effective.
As South Carolina embarks on another nesting season for its sea turtles, the collaborative efforts of volunteers, conservationists, and the community remain essential in safeguarding these revered marine species and their habitats.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Cold Snap Threatens Sea Turtles and Shrimp in Hilton Head
Bald Eagles on Hilton Head Island Welcome New Eggs
Beaufort Students Unite for Loggerhead Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts
Exciting New Exhibits and Educational Art Projects Unveiled at Tybee Island Marine Center
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Island Packet
- Morning Ag Clips
- Google Search: Sea Turtle Nesting Season
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sea Turtles
