By HEATHER RUPPE
Sea turtles are about to be back in South Carolina waters, as the official sea turtle nesting season kicks off on May 1st. The season lasts through October each year, and brings about special ordinances and rules for beach-goers, all of which are in place to protect the endangered species. Sea turtles are protected by federal, state and local laws, all of which are designed to help the turtles thrive. Artificial lights along the beach are of particular threat to sea turtles, as they follow the moon’s light to return to the sea after being hatched.
At Edisto Beach, there are specific ordinances in place that protect sea turtles, while nesting and while being hatched.
These ordinances include:
All lights on the beach must be turned off at dusk from May 1st through Oct. 31st.
All drapes on houses facing the beach must be closed, keeping lights from being visible on the beach.
Turtle eggs cannot be moved.
Remove all sand toys, beach chairs, umbrellas, etc. at least 10 foot above high tide mark. All tents have to be taken down at dusk.
Keep dogs on a leash from May to November.
Ahead of the season, biologists with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources recently took flight to do a survey of any offshore migration they saw. While in air over all of South Carolina’s coastline, two biologists with S.C. DNR counted 12 live leatherback turtles and seven living loggerhead sea turtles.
How to be a good steward of sea turtles
If you see an injured or sick sea turtle along the South Carolina coast, report it to the S.C. DNR 24-hour wildlife hotline (1-800-922-5431) as soon as possible.
Only use red lights at night. Do not use a phone flashlight.
Fill in all holes left on the beach.
Flatten sand castles when you leave.
Keep your distance from nesting and hatching turltes.
Always turn off lights that face the beach. This includes houses an and patio lights.
Never leave trash on the beach.
Report any violations to the Edisto Beach Police Department at 843-549-2211.
Boaters should also take special care while in the water.
