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NC protection program says vandal dug up loggerhead sea turtle nest

The Oak Island Sea Turtle Protection Program wants beachgoers to know that disturbing sea turtle nests carries a federal fine up to $50,000 and possible prison time.
Credit: National Park Service image
A loggerhead sea turtle hatchling makes its way into water as sun rises at Assateague Island National Seashore.

OAK ISLAND, N.C. — Advocates for sea turtles say a hefty fine is in store for whoever dug into a nest of loggerhead sea turtle eggs in North Carolina.

The Oak Island Sea Turtle Protection Program says the nest was tampered with on Monday. Sand was displaced from the covered hole, and it was burrowed into.

RELATED: Loggerhead turtle nest discovered at Virginia Beach North End

The News & Observer reports none of the eggs were broken or harmed. But the group wants beachgoers to know that disturbing sea turtle nests carries a federal fine up to $50,000 and possible prison time.

Last week, a woman was arrested in Miami after police said she stomped on sea turtle nests and poked them with a stake.

Loggerhead turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act.

RELATED: Police: Woman jabbed at Florida sea turtle nest with stick

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