High surf from Tropical Storm Cristobal washed away 7 of the 13 loggerhead nests found thus far on Panama City Beach. The remaining six nests were severely flooded but may still hatch later this summer, depending on how long the eggs were submerged. The season is still young, and we expect more nests to be laid in the coming weeks. 
Good start
Our season is off to a good start with loggerhead nesting running well above average for this early stage of the season. We’ve found 12 nests so far, and surveyor Secret Holmes got to see her second loggerhead on the beach, a rare sight for these typically nocturnal nesters. 
First Nest!
Our first loggerhead nest was found yesterday on Panama City Beach, and our surveyor got to see her laying eggs! Sea turtles mostly nest at night, so this was a special treat.
Surveys Underway
We are underway! Sea turtle monitoring started May 1 on a beautiful cold, clear morning on Panama City Beach. We’ll provide updates soon on changes to our monitoring this season due to the pandemic. Meantime, practice social distancing, wash your hands, and please take care of each other.