What comes to mind when you think of Charleston South Carolina? The civil war, good southern food, warm hospitality, beaches? How about home of the Loggerhead sea turtles, Cartena Cartena . 
As I always say travel like a local and immerse in the culture, learn about the area and the people. The environment is an an important part of an area and the sea life.
These turtles have been known to be home at Folly Beach on the Atlantic Ocean. They return here between May and October and lay their eggs on the beach possibly by the marsh the area beaches are known to have. They nest between two to five times in one season. What’s fascinating is after they hatch they venture out to sea on their own and return back here to their birth place when they are ready to nest which is when they are fifteen to fifty years years old. They have been known to venture as far across the sea as Portugal. This is incredible. What a great GPS system they have and we would all wish for.
The locals care about these lovely animals and the sea and it becomes incorporated into their daily lives. Shoppers are encouraged to use recycle bags as stores will not provide plastic bags, most restaurants will not provide straws, & fisherman are trained how to fish and use special nets while being mindful of the sea turtles so they don’t get stuck in their nets and fishing lines. Boaters are encouraged to watch out for them as well so they don’t get caught in their fan/motor. If the unfortunate is to happen the South Carolina Aquarium has a hospital and is prepared to come rescue them. A great place to visit and learn more about the sea and the local life. Here’s a photo of Blue who had an unfortunate accident with a net and lost her fin. She is being cared for at the hospital and soon will be released once she is stronger and able to swim well with one fin.
On your next trip consider visiting the aquarium and support the local community.
