Bald Head Island is not only home to a wealth of adventure but also endless things to see on your adventures. This includes an array of wildlife that call the North Carolina island home, including turtles. Arguably, the most popular residents on Bald Head Island, these animals are a treat to see. However, it’s important you have an understanding of what to do if you see one. To help you have a turtle encounter that’s safe for both you and the turtle, the Munroe Properties team has put together this guide. 

What Types of Turtles Are Found on Bald Head Island?

There are several different species that live or nest around the island, including green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. While loggerheads are the most common, there’s still a chance you might see the others offshore or nesting. Take some time to learn about the animals you may spot and how to differentiate them.

Conservation Efforts and How to Protect Turtles

Nesting season in North Carolina generally runs from May through October, with June and July being peak nesting. During a nesting cycle, female turtles come out of the water at night and dig a nest above the high-tide line. One turtle can lay around 100 eggs, which will incubate for 55 to 65 days. Once hatched, the baby turtles will make their journey to the ocean. 

During nesting season, Bald Head Island Conservancy members can go on a turtle walk, where they will learn about the group’s conservation program. After, they will head to the beach to see if they spot any nesting or hatching activity.

Conservation Efforts and How to Protect Turtles

Bald Head Island Conservancy is a leader in monitoring, research, and nest protection efforts on the island. Their program includes nightly patrols during nesting season, marking and protecting nests, tracking and tagging, and hosting education programs. 

Artificial light is one of the biggest threats to hatchlings as it can disorient them away from the ocean. This is why doing something as easy as turning off beachfront lights at night is such an easy way to help. If you’re going to be out on the beach after the sun goes down, use a red flashlight or put a red sticker on your phone. While white light can disorient turtles, they can’t see red light.

Other ways you can help include: 

• Filling in holes on the beach
• Packing up your beach gear and not leaving it on the shoreline overnight
• Using reusable shopping bags
• Staying off marked nesting areas
• Keeping a respectful distance from any turtle you come upon

Enjoy Mother Nature’s Beauty on a Bald Head Island Vacation

Whether out looking for turtles or enjoying a peaceful day kayaking, there are endless ways to enjoy breathtaking beauty on a North Carolina vacation to Bald Head Island. Surround yourself in stunning scenery by renting from Munroe Properties. Our inventory of well-appointed vacation rentals on Bald Head Island includes homes with ocean views and rentals found in the maritime forest. To learn more about the amenities found at our Bald Head Island rentals, call 910-363-4955.

There’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to enjoy on a Bald Head Island vacation. Take in picturesque views from the back porch of your Munroe Properties rental. Watch the waves roll in while relaxing on the beach. There are also several natural attractions to explore that are known for showcasing the beauty of this North Carolina island. The reason so much of the island has retained its native nature and wildness is thanks to the Bald Head Island Conservancy. Keep reading to learn more about this group and the work it does.

What Is the BHIC?

Founded in 1983, the Bald Head Island Conservancy (BHIC) is focused on barrier island conservation. One of the group’s main missions is to champion the sustainability of barrier islands like Bald Head Island. The Conservancy helps to sponsor and facilitate scientific research that benefits coastal communities. 

What Does the Group Do?

BHIC is known for hosting several recreational and educational activities. When planning your stay at one of our Bald Head Island rentals, take a look at the program calendar to see what is being offered during your vacation. Popular activities include:

• Nature exploration tours: Explore some of the island’s most picturesque natural locations.
• Beach patrol ride-along: This activity, offered during the summer, allows participants to look for and see sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• BHI After Dark: Wander forests, marshes, and wetlands to witness the nocturnal wildlife that call Bald Head home.
• Kayak the Creeks: Head out on a guided kayak trip to see the island from a new point of view.
• NC Coastal Explorers – Touch Tank: Meet and learn about the aquatic creatures that live in the saltwater tanks at the Conservancy.

Start Planning Your Summer Vacation

It’s never too early to start planning your summer escape! Checking out all the activities the Bald Head Island Conservancy offers is an excellent addition to your itinerary. Starting the planning process early gives you a better chance of reserving your top rental option from Munroe Properties. Brush up on important golf cart safety tips and set off on memorable adventures from your North Carolina home base.

Our inventory, which includes rooms at Marsh Harbour Inn, includes spacious and luxurious rentals all over Bald Head Island. Whether looking for ocean views or something on the golf course, we have the perfect home for you. To learn more about our Bald Head Island vacation rentals, call 910-363-4955.