Sea Turtles on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
- Cory Jones
- Oct 6, 2024
- 3 min read
Written By Cory Jones
Welcome to Daufuskie Island here in South Carolina, a place where breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history come together to offer an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family seeking adventure, this guide will help you navigate and make the most of your visit to Daufuskie Island.
Today, we’ll be discussing Sea Turtles!
Loggerhead Sea Turtles
The loggerhead sea turtle, our state reptile, has a rich reddish-brown carapace and yellow plastron. The loggerhead’s large skull provides for the attachment of strong jaw muscles for crushing conchs and crabs. Loggerheads usually leave the cold coastal waters in the winter and are often seen along the western edge of the Gulf Stream.
The major nesting area for the loggerhead in the western Atlantic is the southeastern United States. In South Carolina, the primary nesting beaches are between North Inlet and Prices’ Inlet, but other beaches in the southern part of the state also have moderate nesting densities. These are mainly undeveloped nesting beaches between Kiawah Island and Hilton Head. The nesting season runs from mid May to mid August.
Lights Out for Loggerheads
The support of South Carolina coastal residents is needed more than ever to raise awareness and educate our visitors to Keep Light’s Out for Loggerheads. The loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtle nesting season is May through October. Nesting occurs on the beaches of South Carolina’s barrier islands. From May to mid-August, loggerheads come ashore to deposit approximately 120 eggs in a nest cavity in the dry sand dune system. Sixty days later, loggerhead hatchlings emerge from the nest at night and head to the ocean. Nests hatch from July through the end of October. During the nesting season, loggerheads may be disoriented by artificial lights. A disorientation event occurs when artificial light from man-made sources leads turtles away from the ocean.
Loggerheads are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act and are protected by federal and state laws. The loggerhead nesting population in the southeastern United States is continuing to decline and it has been recommended that this species be reclassified from threatened to endangered. If a sea turtle hatchling is disoriented by artificial light, the maximum federal fine for harming a threatened species is $25,000. County and local lighting ordinances exist to protect sea turtles. To see a list of lighting ordinances in South Carolina, please visit: http://www.dnr.sc.gov/seaturtle/volres/ordinances.pdf. Violating local or county lighting ordinances carry fines up to $500.
I will be expanding my research on these lovely creatures, as i get to work closer with the team on the island over the next few months.
There is a LARGE List of animals, on the island of Daufuskie that you need to look out for during your trip! I'll update this list as I find more!
but you can find more resources here:
Conclusion
With its pristine natural beauty, South Carolina hosts biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. Spot a variety of wildlife such as beavers, minks, and over 300 species of birds. While not all of its inhabitants are dangerous, there are certainly some to look out for. As you dive into Daufuskie Island, be vigilant of the bull shark and the vibrant Portuguese Man o’ War. After a hike through or drive your golf cart around the Islands woods and swamps check for ticks and mosquito bites, treating them promptly. While enjoying this state, be watchful and attentive for the deadliest animals. Remember, the beauty of South Carolina lies not only in its landscapes but also in the incredible wildlife that calls it home.
About the Author
Cory Jay is an avid traveler and blogger with a passion for exploring new destinations. With a keen eye for detail and a love for storytelling, Cory shares travel tips and guides to help fellow travelers make the most of their journeys.
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