We are on a roll this year – literally! We are putting the miles on our new buggy (which we are SO grateful for) trying to keep up with the nests and false crawls across our small but mighty beach here at Caswell Beach. We have been cautiously optimistic that after last year’s low nest count here and at most other southern beaches we would see higher nest counts this year. Our sea turtle mamas are NOT disappointing!
Here’s a look at where we are at, how it compares to years past, and how it proves the research that we help contribute to is helping to increase turtle numbers. It’s not even July, and we have 60 nests and still have about six weeks of nesting to go. This could be our highest nest count year yet here on Caswell Beach! Can you guess what the total number of nests will be?
2026 Nests to Date Comparison to Past 20 Years
We Had A Daytime Nester!
And if that’s not enough excitement, this past weekend we were pleasantly surprised to get an early evening call about a nesting turtle mama. We were able to monitor and observe from a safe distance (always stay 20 ft away), and share the experience with some beach visitors. Mama looked healthy and was eager to get on her way. Thanks to those that called our hotline!
Nesting Updates
This past week, we had as many as 3 new nests per day, and as many as 5 false crawls on a given day. The mama turtles are definitely preferring the quieter, darker areas of the beach. As we mentioned in our past posts, the tides, winds and erosion are making these mamas work hard for their nests. Here are some highlights from the week. If you are on the beach and you see us wave hello!
**This conservation work for protected sea turtles on Caswell Beach is authorized by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (ES Permit 26ST03).
Please consider donating to our efforts as we build up our necessary resources for the season.
You can donate at Caswell Beach Turtle Watch Donations.
YOU CAN HELP! If you see a sea turtle mama coming onto the beach and and attempting to nest, please call our hotline immediately (910-368-6323) to notify us. During sea turtle season, we monitor 24/7. Please educate your family, friends, neighbors and especially – your renters. ALWAYS feel free to reach out to us if there is a concern, or you have questions. (All contact info is at the top of the page.)
PLEASE PRINT AND SHARE our Sea Turtle Info Sheet below. If you own a rental or are a renter, please post this for visitors to see. Greater education and understanding will lead to more happy and healthy sea turtles gracing our beaches. Every little bit helps!
