Wild sea turtle nests at Caswell Beach are continuing to break our all time record! We now have 110 nests for 2026!
It’s been an overwhelming year with the number of nests and all that brings. From the multiple new nests AND false crawls per day during nesting season with Mamas hoarding specific sections of beach and ignoring others; to multiple hatches per evening – it has been BUSY!
Nest #110 was no exception. Early last evening, lots of wild turtle tracks were discovered by a sharp-eyed volunteer at a section of beach near other nests. When this occurs, we cross reference to any false crawls and sure enough, it helped us locate the nest. This particular crawl was up against another nest crawl on the same day, so indiscernible as a nest. What a happy surprise in an already banner year for Caswell Beach Turtle Watch!
We have had such great support from our beach visitors and turtle ambassadors, and without that our turtle survivors and turtle data captured would be far less. We are grateful for the positive response. Sea Turtle Awareness is working!
We still have 22 nests awaiting inventory or emergence which is unusual for Caswell Beach in September-October. But, as we’ve said, it’s been a highly unusual year!
Have questions about Caswell Beach Turtle Watch? Find us on Facebook or email us at caswellbeachturtle@gmail.com.
**This conservation work for protected sea turtles on Caswell Beach is authorized by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (ES Permit 26ST03).
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.)