Historic leatherback sea turtle nest discovered on the Outer Banks

By on August 1, 2026

(Network for Endangered Sea Turtles)

A remarkable milestone in sea turtle conservation occurred early July 30, when a leatherback sea turtle nested on the 4×4 in Corolla. This is the first leatherback sea turtle since 2009 to nest on North Carolina’s northern Outer Banks between the Virginia state line and South Nags Head.

The nest has been marked by N.E.S.T. responders and is checked daily, as are all of our nests. We follow NCWRC guidelines with nests, and relocation of this leatherback nest was not necessary. Additional information about the nest response will be shared in the future.

Leatherback sea turtles are the largest sea turtles in the world, with adults weighing up to 2,000 pounds and measuring more than six feet in length. They are listed as endangered and rarely nest in North Carolina, making this event exceptionally significant for both researchers and conservation volunteers.

These turtles are easily distinguished from other sea turtles due to their leathery skin. A typical leatherback nest contains 70 to 85 fertilized eggs that are the size of billiard balls as well as 20 to 40 smaller spacer eggs that have not been fertilized. Their flippers move together as the turtles crawl to make a nest, causing their tails to drag and make a mark between the ones made by their flippers.

This historic nest serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting North Carolina’s beaches and highlights the critical role that vigilant beachgoers and dedicated volunteers play in conserving these magnificent marine reptiles for future generations.

This conservation work for protected sea turtles in the northern Outer Banks is authorized by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (ES Permit #26ST10)

If you observe a sea turtle on the beach it is urgent you call our 24 hour hotline (252) 441-8622.

Learn more about N.E.S.T. and how to support them on their website, click here to find out about upcoming events and follow them on Facebook.

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See what people are saying:

  • Hack This

    This made me laugh: “This historic nest serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting North Carolina’s beaches…”
    Hmmm……the houses on 4×4 beach alone means the protection for any beach is null and void. And the people living ON the 4×4 are the biggest hypocrits I have ever heard cry about protecting wildlife while drinking coffee in their own personal box on the beach. Crazy.
    LOL

    August 2, 2026 @ 6:46 am
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