These in-the-field, behind-the-scene tours offer a look at the sea turtle conservation efforts and research programs on Jekyll Island. Early morning risers will explore barrier island ecology while visiting the island’s active turtle nests. The tours include opportunities to assist with data collection and to witness a nest excavation on a hatched nest!

What are Nest Walks?

30 minute ecology walk/talk leading up to an active nest that has been hatching on its own for a minimum of 5 days.  The group will be met by the turtle patrol interns or staff who will conduct the post-hatching excavation*.  Participants will assist with recording data on an official data collection form that they may keep as a souvenir.  Groups are limited to 25 people per walk (GADNR permit regulation).

*post-hatching excavation (def.)-a nest that has been hatching naturally and on it’s own for 5-7 days, is dug up to record contents and determine hatchling success rate.  Nests may contain hatched eggs, unhatched eggs, dead hatchlings, and/or live hatchlings.  We are not looking for live hatchlings and it is actually good to not find any as this means they made it out on their own.

When are the Nest Walks?

Sundays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays during hatching season.

Walks are subject to cancellation due to lack of a nest to excavate.  Please see cancellation policy at bottom of page for more information.

What time are the Nest Walks?

Varies between 7am-9am due to tides. Walk participants are to arrive at the specified location at least 15 minutes early.

*Time is subject to change, staff will call participants at least 2 days in advance if it does.

What is the cost of the Nest Walks?

$6 per person (Members); $12 per person (Non-Members**)

Toddlers are not free
Children under 18 yrs. must be accompanied by an adult
**Price does not include general admission to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Cancellation Policy:
1. Cancellations due to weather cannot be made until the morning of the walk, so please plan to meet your guide as scheduled to determine the status of walk.  You will not be charged if we cancel the walk.

2. Cancellation of a walk due to a lack of nest to excavate are fully refundable.  We will notify participants as soon as possible in this event and try to reschedule you if possible.

3. Cancellations or changes in reservations by participants are required by 5pm, 2 days in advance of the walk.  We reserve the right to apply the full amount of the reservation charge to the participants credit card should they fail to comply with this policy or do not show up to the walk.

NEST WALKS HAVE CONCLUDED FOR THE 2009 SEASON.

All proceeds from Nest Walks help to offset operational costs, of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, including the rehabilitation of our patients.