Caswell Beach Turtle Watch executed three excavations/inventories yesterday evening, two of which were early due to the Tropical System and King Tides. All three nests had been overwashed by the previous King Tides in August so we weren’t sure what the results would be. It was pouring rain and Caswell Beach Road was badly flooded. We so appreciate the dedication of our volunteers who were able to brave the weather!
Nest #52 had five hatchlings emerge mid-day on 9/13 with beach visitors calling to let us know – and 59 more that night. More sneaky hatchlings emerged at another opportunity, probably during the rain. Last night the tide splashed over the nest when they arrived! Team 6 got to work quickly and saved four live hatchlings!
Nest #53 also had hatchlings emerge during the wee hours of the night on 9/13. The emergence hole and some tracks were seen by Morning Patrol the next morning. The King Tide approached the nest top last night, so permission for an emergency excavation was given by our State Coordinator. It was a small clutch and had a 92.8% hatch and emergence rate!
Nest #54 hatched Saturday night, 9/14, with Team 8 and sweet families present. Thanks to 8 year old Lily for helping us put out more green on the runway! They all observed 103 hatchlings going in all directions except where they were supposed to go! They were misoriented by the brief but bright sunset to the west. The team successfully made sure all made it to the water. Last night the King Tide approached the nest top, so permission was given for an emergency excavation. This saved 1 live hatchling from the nest!
Full results from all inventories can be found here.
**This conservation work for protected sea turtles on Caswell Beach is authorized by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (ES Permit 24ST03).
Want to help? Please consider donating to our efforts to protect sea turtles at Caswell Beach Turtle Watch Donations.
Please be advised that all Caswell Beach Volunteers carry and wear a NCWRC permit badge. Official volunteers also have Caswell Beach Parking Permits to display at all times when they park to perform sea turtle duties. Don’t hesitate to ask to see a badge if you are uncertain who you are speaking with!
Nest #52
Nest #53
Nest #54
