A big sign posted last summer in Sea Isle City reminds motorists to watch out for turtles.
Things To Do
Did You Know…
Diamondback Terrapins Turtles nest between late May and mid-July.
They are the only turtles that live in the brackish water of the marsh.
Before coastal development, they laid their eggs in the dunes by the ocean...now they lay them anywhere they can – even in people's yards.
They lay 8-12 eggs and may come out to nest up to 3 times in a season.
Their eggs hatch 8-12 weeks later, and while some hatchlings emerge in the late Summer or early Fall, many hibernate and don't emerge until the following Spring.
Only 3 eggs out of 3000 survive to become mature adults...they need our help!
If you see Diamondback Terrapins crossing the street, help them go in the direction they're headed, BUT THINK “SAFETY FIRST” and always use caution whenever you step into the street.
Please don't stand over turtles taking photos or videos while they are nesting...this may frighten them and they'll walk away.
Vehicles cause approximately 500 terrapin deaths in this area each nesting season.
Other dangers to Diamondback Terrapins include boats and crab traps without Terrapin excluders, which can be obtained at any bait store and easily attached to the trap.
If you see an injured Terrapin, please call Susan or Steve Ahern at 609-263-7358. If the Aherns are not available, please follow the instructions on their answering machine.
Please drive slowly and be on the look-out for Diamondback Terrapins crossing the road!
Did You Know…
