Protect our Nesting Sea Turtles

Loggerhead Sea Turtles are a threatened species protected by federal, state, and local laws. Females nest May 1 through August 31 above the high-water mark on beaches along Hilton Head. Female Sea Turtles do not begin to lay eggs until they are about 30 years old, and they lay their eggs in the general beach region where they hatched. They lay their eggs in the darkness of night to avoid overheating and disturbance.

Sea turtle hatchlings’ incubation period is about 60 days, and they usually emerge from the nest at night. The nest temperature determines a hatchling’s’ sex. The hatchlings orient themselves toward the brightest horizon (the moon) and dash towards the sea. Visible lights from buildings or streets near the beach disorient the hatchlings, and they wander inland where they are almost certain to perish.

Important reminders:

• Never disturb sea turtles, their tracks, nests, or hatchlings.
• If your property is visible from the beach, turn off your outside lights at 10 p.m. from May 1-October 31.
• If any of your interior lights are visible from the beach or cast light on the beach, add shades to the bulbs, close blinds or drapes at 10 p.m., or turn them off.
• Reduce artificial lighting: Sea turtles rely on natural light cues to navigate. Keep beaches dark at night, avoid using flashlights or strong beach lights.
• Use red flashlights only!
• No digging holes: Please refrain from digging large holes in the sand, as these can trap nesting turtles and hatchlings. If you do dig holes, fill them back in before leaving the beach to ensure the safety of both humans and turtles.
• Remove beach gear: Take all beach chairs, umbrellas, toys, and other gear with you when you leave the beach. These obstacles can impede nesting turtles and hatchlings.
• The Sea Turtle Patrol conducts beach light exposure violation assessments May 1 – Oct 31.

Please stop by the PDPOA Admin Office to get your “Help Put the Beach to Bed” window/refrigerator cling.