Things are heating up on our island beach, and it’s not just the temperatures. Our hatchlings are emerging at a fast pace and beginning their life’s journey into the sea.
Today’s main attraction was completing the inventory of Nest #3R - our second attempt. The Friday volunteers were joined by our ultimate veterans Barb and Steve and two of their Saturday volunteers, Cherie and Bob. All contributed to complete this vital operation carried out as part of our sea turtle patrol duties. We appreciate the extra help!
Nest 3R was laid on Wednesday, May 29. This mamma brought a gal pal along, as this one and Nest 2 were discovered within several feet of each other on the same day. Due to this nest being laid close to the high tide line, it was relocated in the same area, just further up toward the dune. One hundred-thirty five eggs were laid; 134 (one sacrificed for DNA research) were relocated.
The nest emerged at 59 days on July 27th. It was reported to be a “picture perfect” emergence.
As per DNR guidelines, the inventory was scheduled for Tuesday, July 30th. As we began digging into the egg chamber, several live hatchlings were found near the top of the nest before we reached any eggs or egg shells.
Several live hatchlings at the top of the nest
When this occurs, the guidelines state we are to “quickly cover the nest cavity with moist sand and return the site to its original condition. Wait at least three additional days before entering the nest again.”
It’s always disappointing when we have to recover a nest, but it’s important to allow the hatchlings time after they hatch to absorb their external yolk sac, strengthen their flippers and rest before leaving the nest, giving them a better chance of survival as they start their journey. It’s always best to allow the hatchlings to emerge naturally when they are ready.
Today, we were able to proceed with the inventory. Bob and first timer Summer dug into the nest, while the others inspected and sorted its contents. One hundred twenty hatched eggs, 10 unhatched eggs, one dead hatchling, and, to the delight of all, one live hatchling straggler were excavated from the nest cavity. A great result with a hatch success rate of 88.8% and an emergence success rate of 87.4%
We all enjoyed watching this little one making its way into the ocean.
Pics by Cherie and Melissa. Text by Kim
Waties Island performs research and management activities regarding sea turtle conservation in accordance with SCDNR Permit Number MTP500.
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