Fun Facts
- Each turtle nest contains an average of 120 eggs, but in 2024 our smallest nest contained 69 eggs and the largest had 150!
- Only one hatchling in one thousand is likely to survive to maturity. In 2024 Edisto was home to 148 nest and 11,429 eggs hatched from our beach.
- Although loggerheads are the most common turtle nesting on Edisto beaches, we have also hosted the occasional green or Kemp's ridley turtle.
- Each tiny three-inch hatchling must swim for hours and many miles out to the Sargasso Sea to reach relative cover and nutritious food.
Did you know...
Only trained Turtle Patrol volunteers supervised under the official Permit Holder authorized by the SC DNR (Department of Natural Resources) are allowed to perform conservation activities such as:
- Locating and relocating sea turtle nests
- Marking and maintaining nest areas
- Assisting hatchlings
- Inventorying nests
Anyone caught interfering with nesting turtles, nests or hatchlings without authorization is subject to severe penalties under local, state and federal laws protecting endangered wildlife.
You can help by...
- Immediately reporting unauthorized activity to Edisto Beach Police at 843-549-2211.
- Providing photo or video evidence to police when they arrive.
- Calling Edisto Beach Police if you see turtles in need of assistance.
Thank you!
Edisto Turtle Season Trends
Edisto Beach Sea Turtle Tally
2024 FINAL:
Turtle Tally
IMPORTANT: All activities shown and described are authorized under permit #MTP535 issued by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and performed by trained volunteers. If you observe turtles or hatchlings needing help, please contact Edisto Beach Police immediately at 843-549-2211.
EBLTP is a registered 501(c)(3) in South Carolina and obtains annual authorization from the SC DNR to perform conservation activities.