Time running out to vote on names for aquarium’s baby sea turtles

KURE BEACH, NC — Time is running out to help name two loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings now living at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

The young turtles, found in separate nests at Fort Fisher and Carolina Beach, were rescued during routine nest excavations after failing to make it to the ocean. Each year, the aquarium takes in two hatchlings to raise for about a year before releasing them back into the wild as stronger juveniles.

Aquarium educator Katie Kingston said the naming process helps the public form a connection with the turtles.

“If you get to help name these turtles, hopefully you’ll develop a relationship with them, gain empathy, and maybe want to be a part of their journey and success out there in the ocean,” Kingston said.

The aquarium has offered nine sets of name pairings for the public to choose from, including Waccamaw and Coharie, honoring Native American tribes; Harbor and Isla, reflecting coastal habitats; and Nova and Astral, inspired by the stars. Voting is open online through the aquarium’s social media platforms or in person at the aquarium through Friday, Aug. 22 at noon.

Kingston said the turtles are thriving under the care of veterinarians and staff and will be released next year. In the meantime, she encourages community members to get involved in conservation through small actions such as joining local beach cleanups.

The aquarium is hosting a cleanup Saturday from 8 to 10 a.m. at Ocean Front Park in Kure Beach. Supplies will be provided, and participants can register online or show up.

More information and voting links can be found here.