Tybee Island’s sea turtle Nest Eight began hatching Wednesday, September 7th! Thee were babies reported on the beach Thursday morning, though they all seemed to have made it to the water safely. There were even babies emerging Friday afternoon! This beautiful picture was shared by Nancy Futral on the Tybee Sea Turtle Project Facebook Page wall and shows one little guy making his way to the waves!
Nancy is a wonderful example of someone who knows just what to do if you spot a sea turtle on the beach! Like Nancy, always call for assistance and never touch the sea turtles- they are protected by the Endangered Species Act. The wonderful volunteers with the Tybee Sea Turtle Project will be able to assist the babies as needed. If you find a sea turtle, turtle tracks, or an unmarked nest, please contact these resources in the following order: Tammy, Sea Turtle Project Coordinator – 912.484.3416, Tybee Island Marine Science Center – 912.786.5917, and Georgia DNR – 800.241.4113.
Nest Eight was excavated yesterday evening about 7:30 p.m. and a nice sized group showed up to watch and learn! There were loads of hatched eggs and two live stragglers! The two babies were helped along and made their way to the ocean safe to start their journey. Remember, excavations are open to the public, so if you are on the island and can make it, please feel free! Stay up to date on all the nest activity on the official Tybee Sea Turtle Project page on Facebook! Tybee is still watching Nest Nine for any signs of hatching, so there will be more sea turtle news to come!
