NPS Photo Cumberland’s 18-mile undeveloped beach is one of the most important loggerhead sea turtle nesting areas in Georgia. Each year it accounts for 25 to 30 percent of the statewide nesting total. Cumberland highest nesting season was 2022 with 1255 nests: 1248 Loggerhead, 4 Green and 3 unknown. Loggerhead and Green sea turtles are listed as a Federally threatened and endangered species. The park’s sea turtle monitoring program utilizes interns who patrol the beach from May through October each year, locating nests; monitoring those nests; screening nests to protect from predation; and finally inventorying them after hatching to evaluate success. The interns provide a much needed service to the park and gain valuable experience in their field of study that helps with future employment opportunities.
For over a decade, the park has funded the annual summer internship program in partnership with the Student Conservation Association. Interested in helping Cumberland Island National Seashore's Sea Turtle program?
1) Visit seaturtle.org and learn about our sea turtles and the important work being done to protect our area. You can monitor Cumberland Island and our success specifically.
2) Apply for an internship through the Student Conservation Association. Visit their website at www.thesca.org to learn more about competitive opportunities at Cumberland Island National Seashore.
|
Last updated: April 2, 2026