Nueces County Coastal Parks teams will monitor beaches through October 1, tracking nests, relocating eggs, and urging the public to help protect sea turtles.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Sea turtle nesting patrols begin April 1 along North Padre Island as officials ramp up efforts to protect endangered species during peak nesting season.

Nueces County Coastal Parks (NCCP) says patrols will run through October 1, covering beaches from the South Packery Channel Jetty to the edge of Padre Island National Seashore. This is the second year crews have actively monitored North Padre Island beaches.

Teams will track nesting activity, collect data, and relocate vulnerable nests to safer areas. 

The focus is especially on the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, known for its rare group-nesting behavior called “arribadas,” the Spanish word for “arrival,” which serves as a protective measure against predators like coyotes that target sea turtles and their nests.

NCCP says last year saw record nesting numbers, but with increased visitation at the beaches—with Bob Hall Pier reopening—has added pressure, making public awareness more important.

Beachgoers are urged to drive slowly, stay alert, and avoid disturbing nesting turtles.

 Anyone who spots a nesting turtle should call 1-866-TURTLE-5 and report the location without approaching the animal.

Conservation efforts also extend to nearby beaches, including areas around Corpus Christi, where rising beach traffic continues to increase the need for protection.