Flags Across America celebrate sea turtle conservation at Sandy Point
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service shared stories from Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge during the Flags Across America initiative.
This refuge on St. Croix serves as a vital Caribbean location where endangered leatherback sea turtles come to lay their eggs. People often hope to see hatchlings scurry from their nests down the beautiful unspoiled beach toward the ocean.
Sandy Point was established specifically to protect nesting habitat for the largest turtle in the world. This massive creature can weigh up to two thousand pounds and reach eight feet long. Other endangered species like hawksbill and green turtles also choose this refuge to build their nests there.
During the months from April through August the public must leave the shore to ensure turtle safety. This closure helps protect the turtles from disturbance by humans while they rest and nest safely in the sand. Hundreds of volunteers assist the recovery program each year.
Thousands more join guided nesting and hatching observation tours. Later additional land was set aside to save the Aklis archaeological spot and rare Vahl's boxwood trees.
The rest of the year the beach opens weekends for residents and tourists. Visitors enjoy the broad sand and clear warm water in nature.