By Submitted Story on June 7, 2026
(Network for Endangered Sea Turtles)
Sea turtle nesting season is underway on the northern Outer Banks, and N.E.S.T. (Network for Endangered Sea Turtles) is asking residents and visitors to help protect nesting sea turtles by keeping their distance and avoiding artificial light.
In recent weeks, N.E.S.T. volunteers have documented multiple incidents of nesting sea turtles being disturbed by flash photography, cell phone lights, flashlights, and people approaching too closely. While many people are excited to witness this rare event, these actions can disrupt the nesting process.
Sea turtles nest primarily at night and depend on dark, undisturbed beaches. When disturbed by lights or human activity, a nesting turtle may abandon her nesting attempt, return to the ocean without laying eggs, or choose a less suitable nesting location.
If you encounter a nesting sea turtle:
Stay back and observe from a distance.
Do not use flashlights, cell phone lights, or camera flashes.
Remain quiet and allow the turtle to nest undisturbed.
All sea turtles that nest on the Outer Banks are protected under the Endangered Species Act and are listed as threatened or endangered. Every successful nest contributes to the recovery of these species.
Everyone can also help sea turtles by turning off beachfront lights, filling in holes, removing beach equipment, and picking up trash before leaving the beach.
N.E.S.T.’s conservation work from Nags Head to the Virginia state line is authorized by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (ES Permit #26ST10).
If you observe a sea turtle on the beach it is urgent you call our 24 hour hotline (252) 441-8622.
On Cape Hatteras National Seashore call 252-216-6892.
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