Watching a hatchling struggle to crawl out of a footprint increases awareness of their point of view and their obstacle-filled course. Allow hatchlings to crawl If you're fortunate enough to see hatchlings emerge from their nest, you'll surely be tempted to pick them up and carry them to the ocean. When the female hatchlings mature, they'll return to the same beach to nest. If you see hatchlings crawling off-course, simply guide them on a path to the ocean and cheer them on. Report any hatchling emergence or crawl activity by calling 588-2433.
Artificial lights affect the nesting and hatching of sea turtles.
Brightly lit beaches are a deterrent to nesting females and a deathtrap for hatchlings. They fail to find their way to the ocean quickly and become the victims of ghost crabs and gulls, or die from dehydration in the morning sun. Dark beaches are critical to sea turtle survival. If you notice that a newly laid or a relocated nest has been disturbed in any way, please report it to Folly Beach Public Safety by calling 588-2433 . Loggerhead turtles are a threatened species on the Endangered List and are protected by state and federal laws.