Topsail Turtle Project urging beachgoers to keep distance from nesting sea turtles

SURF CITY, NC (WWAY) — This is sea turtle nesting season and if you see one of these creatures come ashore in the Cape Fear you’re encouraged to leave them alone.

According to the Topsail Turtle Project, someone spotted a set of tracks on Thursday near the Surf City pier.

They say it appears the turtle attempted to dig a nest twice and was possibly disturbed before crawling back to the ocean without laying eggs.

If you see a turtle nesting on the beach, keep your distance and turn off flashlights or any bright lights like the flash on your camera.

Bright, white light can disrupt a turtle’s ability to nest or lay eggs.

If you see a sea turtle nest, call 910-470-2880.

Don’t forget, sea turtles are a protected species. So, don’t disturb the nest.