Welcome to Turtle Season 2016!

 

Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nest on South Carolina beaches May through October. S.C.U.T.E. which stands for South Carolina United Turtle Enthusiasts is one of 30 volunteer sea turtle protection projects along our coastline under the direction of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The 60 mile S.C.U.T.E. area extends from North Inlet in Georgetown County to North Myrtle Beach. The six miles of DeBordieu and Hobcaw beaches typically account for 30-50% of the nests in this area.

 

In South Carolina nest numbers have been steadily improving. In 2015, there were 5111 nests with the highest concentration from North Island south. Here at DeBordieu & Hobcaw, we had a total of 40 nests (DEB 25 - HOB/15). Our record season was 2013 with 108 nests! Many of the first turtles from early protection efforts by SCDNR volunteer projects are reaching maturity (25-30 years) and females are coming back to nest as adults.

 

A REMINDER ABOUT HOLES/SANDCASTLES ON THE BEACH: Please dig holes and build sandcastles below the high tide line. The ocean will naturally fill them in. These obstacles can be a hazard to nesting & hatching sea turtles and to people walking on the beach at night. Also, please remember to turn off oceanfront lighting by 10 p.m. during the nesting season. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

 

        On these pages we will bring you Turtle Season 2016 at DeBordieu and Hobcaw!