Network for Endangered Sea Turtles

We protect and conserve sea turtles on the Outer Banks of North Carolina from the Virginia state line to South Nags Head. We accomplish these efforts through nest management, stranding response, rehabilitation and release efforts, the collection of scientific data and research. We also foster greater understanding and appreciation of sea turtles and their habitats through enhanced public awareness and education.

The sea turtles in our area are listed as threatened or endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act and we operate under a permit issued by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. We locate, identify and protect sea turtle nests and ensure hatchlings get to the ocean. We also respond to sea turtles that strand, documenting their location, size, condition and other factors. We transport live turtles that strand to the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Our outreach and education efforts include presence at a variety of Outer Banks events, special presentations, and the establishment of an elementary school sea turtle curriculum that has been adopted at all five Dare County schools and one in Currituck County.