Hatchling Releases

June 17, 2008 was a busy day for a group of baby sea turtles on South Padre Island as they eagerly made their way out to sea with the help of many local volunteers. Cheered on by those who had assembled to witness this particular release, the hatchlings disappeared, one by one, into the warm welcoming waters of their new home.

Thanks to Robin Cilmi for the photo of
Mary Ann Tous

When baby sea turtles hatch, it is very important that they are able to traverse the beach to the sea safely which is why even though the public is often invited to watch a release, they are asked to remain at some distance from the hatchlings as they take their first steps on the sand.

Be Aware of Sea Turtles

It is very important that everyone be especially careful in areas where sea turtles nest during May and into the first two weeks of June which are the peak times for sea turtle nesting. Please drive slowly because the turtles are not always easy to see.

Furthermore, they will not always move for approaching vehicles and have been known to stop right in the middle of previous tire ruts to nest.

As an endangered animal, the sea turtles should always be given the right of way. Many times the turtles which do venture onto the road are either heavy with eggs and are looking for a place to nest or they've just laid their eggs and are exhausted, trying to find their way back to sea.