Cape Hatteras visitors urged to protect sea turtles during nesting season
CAPE HATTERAS, N.C. (WAVY) — To celebrate World Sea Turtle Day, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is reminding beach goers to watch out for nests.
According to a Facebook post, Cape Hatteras is home to five sea turtle species, including loggerhead, green, Kemps Ridley, hawksbill and leatherback. The turtle nesting season typically lasts between May 1 and Oct. 31.
(Courtesy: National Park Services)
(Courtesy: National Park Services)
(Courtesy: National Park Services)
(Courtesy: National Park Services)
Officials with Cape Hatteras reported a total of 303 sea turtle nests, primarily loggerhead and green sea turtles, laid during 2024.
Cape Hatteras released a list of ways visitors can help the sea turtles during nesting season, all of which can be found below:
- Report sea turtle sightings at 252-216-6892
- Try not to leave a trace on the beach and cover any holes left by beach equipment, including chairs, nets and umbrellas
- Make sure fires are completely put out
- Turn off artificial outdoor lights and close blinds at night
- Do not enter closed areas around sea turtle nests
