The calendar says May. So, that means that turtle nesting season is upon us once again in Margate. Between now and the middle of July, keep an eye out for our local Diamondback Terrapins when traveling along our Jersey Shore streets. We need to do our part to make sure all the mamas make their way from the marshes to the beaches and back again to lay their eggs. This keeps our Terrapin population thriving.
Turtle Nesting Season
As we see more traffic hit our shores for the summer, we also see a rise in turtle deaths on the streets. That is because the beginning of turtle nesting season corresponds with the beginning of the tourist season in Margate. These little guys tend to be hard to see, too. So, that does not help things. Please pay attention to both speed limits and “Caution – Nesting Turtles” signs while traveling along the causeway. The embankments along the roadway and around the salt marshes provide an easy place for mama turtles to lay their eggs. Unfortunately, that means crossing our heavily traveled roads to get to them. That is why we must remain vigilant around this time of year.
Fortunately, staff and volunteers at the Wetlands Institute travel along the 38 mile stretch of roads that our Diamondback Terrapin population also travels this time of year. They look for turtles in distress. They also help these turtles make it to their intended destination whenever possible during turtle nesting season. But they cannot be everywhere all the time. Thus, they ask for our help to watch out for them on the road. If you want to help, put your hazard lights on and, when it is safe to do so, gently pick up the turtle blocking the road. Then, take them to a safe spot along the side of the road going in the same direction they were originally headed. I know these little creatures are absolutely adorable. But they should never be picked up and taken home. They must be allowed to continue on their way. So, keep an eye out on when driving around Margate during turtle nesting season.
Jersey Shore Beach Badges
Just a quick reminder. The deadline to pick up your beach badges at the discounted rate is coming up soon. Margate and Ventnor allow you to use one badge for both. Pick up your badge at half price by the end of business on May 31st. After that, you must pay full price. For Longport beach badges, you may purchase your badge at half price until June 18th.
Sherri Lilienfeld, Apex Prime Realty, Your Source for Jersey Shore Real Estate