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Sea Turtle Tragedy: Storm Swamps Hatchling Nests
21 Jul
Summary
- Tropical Storm Bertha's surge inundated hundreds of sea turtle nests.
- Volunteers and tourists rescued dozens of confused baby turtles.
- Many nests may be lost, impacting what was a promising season.
Tropical Storm Bertha's unexpected surge significantly impacted sea turtle nests along St. George Island's coastline. For over 12 hours, conservationists, vacationers, and locals collaborated to search for and save baby sea turtles dislodged by the storm's heavy rain and wind.
Kimberly Crossen, president of St. George Island Sea Turtle Patrol, described the extreme storm surge as a shock. Prior to the storm, 337 nests were recorded, with 214 affected by high tides. While an estimated 50 nests might still be viable, Crossen awaits confirmation. Nests on Alligator Point beaches also faced inundation.
Sea turtle nests require specific conditions, and prolonged water inundation can prevent hatchlings from developing. Even nests near dunes, usually safe, were compromised. Crossen, assisted by tourists who found hatchlings in unusual locations, managed to rescue 76 disoriented baby turtles. These hatchlings are being kept in buckets with sand until the Gulf calms for their release.
