The Loggerhead Turtles of Cape Romain, South Carolina

Abstract

Detailed field studies show that Atlantic loggerhead sea turtles Caretta caretta caretta (L.), make exploratory crawls to the beach during nesting season, and the fact that a turtle is on the beach does not necessarily mean she will nest at that spot, although she apparently will nest in the immediate vicinity on the night she explores, or very shortly thereafter. Evidence, contrary to popular beliefs, shows no correlation between nesting activity and the stage of the moon, tide, and weather conditions. The physical features of the beach are apparently the most important factors in determining degree of nesting activity. The nesting procedure in South Carolina is consistent with that noted in other populations throughout the species' range. Details of the nest and of the eggs, their incubation, and hatching are presented for future comparison with other species. An average period of incubation of 55 days is demonstrated in South Carolina, and a growth rate is given for the embryos. Many hazards, such as numerous kinds of predators, roots of vegetation, and unfavorable conditions of temperature and moisture are shown to exist for the eggs and hatchlings, resulting in a high rate of mortality. Considerable variation in size, color, and body form is demonstrated for hatchling loggerheads.