Holden Beach Police Investigate Vandalism of Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nest

Greenville New Bern Washington, NC, September 21, 2026 —

HOLDEN BEACH, N.C. – Authorities in Holden Beach are currently investigating an incident of vandalism targeting a loggerhead sea turtle nest located on the town’s beach.

The Holden Beach Police Department has confirmed that an investigation is underway following the discovery of the damaged nest. Details regarding the specific nature of the vandalism or the exact date it occurred were not immediately available.

Loggerhead sea turtles are a species of concern, and their nesting sites are protected under state and federal law. These ancient mariners return to Florida and other southeastern U.S. coastlines to lay their eggs in nests dug into the sand, typically between May and August. The eggs incubate for approximately two months before hatching.

Vandalism of sea turtle nests can have significant consequences, potentially harming eggs and hatchlings, and disrupting the natural reproductive cycle of the species. Law enforcement agencies and wildlife conservation groups often urge the public to report any suspicious activity observed near marked turtle nests.

The Holden Beach Police Department has not released further information concerning potential suspects or the extent of the damage to the nest. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have not yet provided details on any next steps in the inquiry.

Story summarized from the original created by Staff Report on coastalreview.org, see more information here.

Media gallery