With sea turtle nesting season at Cape Hatteras National Seashore beginning this month, Outer Banks Forever, the official nonprofit partner of the national parks there, has begun its annual Adopt A Sea Turtle Nest program.
Supporters can symbolically adopt an active sea turtle nest on the national seashore. Nesting season is typically May through September. The supporter will receive an official adoption certificate and information about their specific nest when it hatches later this summer or fall.
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“Our Adopt a Sea Turtle Nest program is a fun way for people to learn more about these special island visitors and the work our national park staff does every day to help protect them,” said Jessica Barnes, Director of Outer Banks Forever.
Launched in 2020 to support projects and programs that protect and enhance the seashore, the program has raised $73,313 in the time since.
“It’s also fun for us to send updates to each person who adopts a nest, particularly sharing the number of sea turtle hatchlings that make their way out of each nest. It’s a great way to feel connected to these amazing creatures while also supporting Cape Hatteras National Seashore,” Barnes added.
A tax-deductible donation of $100 or more will reserve a 2024 sea turtle nest. There are a limited number of nests each year and they are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Organizers noted that no individual or group that participates in this program can claim ownership of a sea turtle nest, eggs or hatchlings. For the safety of the sea turtles and in alignment with National Park Service guidance, adopted nest locations will not be shared until after it has hatched.
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