Supporters can symbolically adopt an active sea turtle nest on Cape Hatteras National Seashore for the 2026 nesting season.
The donation of $100 or more for the annual “Adopt A Sea Turtle Nest” Program goes to fund critical projects that protect and enhance the seashore, according to organizers, Outer Banks Forever, the official nonprofit partner of the three national parks on the Outer Banks.
Supporter Spotlight
“Our program is now in its seventh year, and more than 600 supporters have helped raise close to $126,000 to protect and enhance the Seashore,” Nicole Erickson, Outer Banks Forever’s development and adoption programs manager, said in a statement. “That collective effort is being felt every day.”
When the gift is made, adopters will be sent a confirmation email. In early June, nests are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and the adopter will receive an adoption certificate by mail or email with initial details about the nest.
After the nest hatches, adopters will receive a personalized update with details collected by National Park Service biologists, including how many hatchlings made their way out to sea.
“It’s 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 to sea. This program provides people the opportunity to learn more about these special island visitors and the great work National Park Service staff does every day to help protect them,” Erickson said.
Organizers noted that no individual or group that participates in this program can claim ownership of a sea turtle nest, eggs, or hatchlings.
Supporter Spotlight
“For the safety of the sea turtles and in alignment with National Park Service guidance, your nest’s exact location will not be shared until after it has hatched,” they added.
