Loggerhead Sea Turtle
Caretta caretta · Also known as: loggerhead
The Mid-Atlantic’s most expected sea turtle, seen offshore in warm months. Rare nesting attempts on Assateague/OC beaches draw protective closures.
Quick facts
| Group | Sea turtle |
|---|---|
| Likelihood nearby | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Habitats | Ocean beach, Offshore / ocean, Inlet, Assateague National Seashore, Assateague State Park |
| Seasons (this coast) | summer, nesting, fall |
How to recognize them
- Large reddish-brown carapace; oversized head; powerful jaws.
- Adults often 200+ pounds; hatchlings are dark and tiny.
Biology notes
- Feeds on crabs, mollusks, and other bottom prey; migrates along the Atlantic coast.
- Assateague hosts sea turtle species including loggerheads; nesting is uncommon this far north but monitored.
Where to see them around Ocean City
- Offshore from Ocean City and Assateague beaches (binoculars / boats).
- Strandings and nesting responses are handled by trained responders—do not approach.
When to look
- Warm-season ocean waters; nesting season vigilance on beaches late spring–summer.
Viewing tips & etiquette
- If you find a turtle on the beach, keep people and dogs back and call park staff / stranding hotline.
- Turn off unnecessary beach lighting during nesting season where posted.
Conservation
- Federally threatened; boat strikes, bycatch, and beach disturbance are key threats.
