04/04/2026
Sea Turtle nesting season is coming soon to North Carolina! Always report and sea turtles whether they're dead or alive by calling local sea turtle project responders at 2525037081, the NC sea turtle stranding line at 9107427729, the aquarium, or local police.
As the season approaches, remember to keep our beaches sea turtle friendly. Nesting season in this area of North Carolina starts in early to mid May and goes all the way through the end of August.
Here are things to do to help:
Please keep all ocean facing lights turned off and use caution when using flashlights at night during nesting season. This helps to keep mothers coming ashore from getting blinded when the come out of the ocean. Once the hatchlings emerge from the dark sand, they need moonlight to guide them in the right direction to the sea. Artificial lights from flashlights and lights on buildings can send mother's away and lead hatchlings in the wrong direction unable to make it to the water, giving the turtles alot less of a chance of survival.
Remove everything from the beach every evening. Sea turtles get tangled up and stuck in obstacles left on the beach year after year. Common obstacles left on the beach include tents, chairs, canopies, trash, toys, etc.
Fill in all holes on the beach. Mother turtles, hatchlings, as well as people can fall into holes and get injured or die at night.
Be cautious and alert at night on the beach and you may witness a mother nesting or hatchlings emerging from their nest this season!! If you do come across a sea turtle on the beach, keep your distance and enjoy the show quietly so the turtles are not disturbed.
Sign artwork created by Carolyn Patton
