Folly Beach, South Carolina, September 29, 2025
News Summary
The Folly Beach Turtle Watch program has reported the first loggerhead sea turtle nest of the season, which was found earlier than the typical kickoff. Biologist Michelle Pate notes that this early nesting is attributed to warmer winter conditions. Additionally, two false crawls were reported, indicating turtles came ashore but did not nest. With active monitoring from over 1,500 volunteers, efforts continue to protect these endangered species along South Carolina’s beaches.
Folly Beach, South Carolina – The first loggerhead sea turtle nest of the season was discovered on Tuesday, September 29, 2025, by trained volunteers from the Folly Beach Turtle Watch program. This sighting occurred a few days prior to the typical May 1 kickoff for nesting season in South Carolina and indicates that nesting may be beginning earlier than usual this year.
Biologist Michelle Pate, who oversees the sea turtle nesting program of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), attributed the early nesting to warmer winter conditions along with increased sightings of loggerhead turtles in local waters. Nesting turtles are particularly vulnerable to artificial light, prompting SCDNR to urge beachfront residents and visitors to turn off lights at night to protect these species.
In addition to the confirmed nest, two false crawls were reported on Seabrook Island. These crawls indicate that females came ashore but did not lay their eggs. Historically, early nesting has been noted in South Carolina, with previous occurrences including Garden City on April 29, 2024, Kiawah Island on April 26, 2019, and Folly Beach itself on April 29, 2002.
The state recorded its highest number of sea turtle nests in 2019, with a total of 8,795 nests. This stands in stark contrast to the significant low of 2,766 nests noted in 2018. It is important to recognize that female sea turtles do not nest every year, as their patterns are cyclical, leading to annual fluctuations in the number of nests.
On average, a clutch of sea turtle eggs consists of approximately 120 eggs, which typically hatch after about 60 days. Nesting females generally remain in local waters and may nest every two weeks, producing as many as six nests in a single season. During this crucial time, they typically abstain from eating, adding stress to their nesting period.
Four species of sea turtles, which include loggerheads, greens, Kemp’s ridleys, and leatherbacks, are known to nest on South Carolina’s beaches. All these species are classified as endangered or threatened, receiving protection under both the Endangered Species Act and state law. Loggerhead turtles account for the majority of annual nests each year.
In South Carolina, over 1,500 volunteers and biologists patrol beaches from spring through fall, engaging in efforts to count, monitor, and protect sea turtle nests. Their dedication plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of these endangered species and raising awareness about the importance of conserving these marine reptiles.
FAQ
What is the date of the first loggerhead sea turtle nest discovery in South Carolina?
The first loggerhead sea turtle nest was discovered on Tuesday, September 29, 2025.
What contributed to the early nesting of sea turtles in South Carolina?
Warmer winter conditions and increased reports of loggerheads in local waters were noted as contributing factors.
What are false crawls, and were any reported this season?
False crawls occur when turtles come ashore but do not nest. Two false crawls were reported on Seabrook Island this season.
What is the average number of eggs in a sea turtle nest?
On average, a clutch of sea turtle eggs consists of about 120 eggs.
What are the four species of sea turtles that nest on South Carolina beaches?
The four species are loggerheads, greens, Kemp’s ridleys, and leatherbacks.
How many volunteers and biologists are involved in patrolling South Carolina beaches for sea turtles?
Over 1,500 volunteers and biologists patrol South Carolina beaches to monitor and protect sea turtle nests.
Key Features of Sea Turtle Nesting in South Carolina
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of First Nest | September 29, 2025 |
| Contributing Factors | Warmer winter, increased loggerhead sightings |
| False Crawls | Two reported on Seabrook Island |
| Average Clutch Size | Approximately 120 eggs |
| Species Nesting | Loggerheads, Greens, Kemp’s Ridleys, Leatherbacks |
| Volunteer Participation | Over 1,500 volunteers and biologists |
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: First Sea Turtle Nest of 2025 Reported on Folly Beach
- Wikipedia: Loggerhead Sea Turtle
- WBTW: South Carolina Volunteers Move Largest Loggerhead Turtle Nest
- Google Search: Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nesting
- Island Packet: Conservation Efforts for Sea Turtles
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sea Turtle
- Explore Beaufort SC: First Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nest Found
- Google News: Sea Turtle Nesting South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
