Because they are an endangered species, their nests are protected. A very active volunteer turtle patrol and hatching program maximizes the number of hatchlings who make it to the ocean each year, relocating nests as necessary, and erecting wire shields to keep the eggs out of reach of hungry raccoons and foxes. The effort expended by the female Loggerhead in crawling out the ocean and up onto the beach where she digs a hole to lay her eggs is a touching site. Life is tough for these little guys and only a small percentage survive the first year. Loggerhead Turtles Cowgill's Corner White tailed deer can be seen throughout Kiawah, browsing on native plants and carefully selected ornamentals.
Twins are common.
Please do not disturb bedded-down fawns, as they most likely have not been abandoned but simply left while the doe searches for food. Please drive with caution while on the island. The 12-mile stretch of sandy beach is a delight to the eye and a major attraction for property owners and tourists alike. While shelling or just sunning there, keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the waves. Kiawah is fortunate in that the beach is mostly accreting, although there are areas at each end of the island where scarping has occurred.