Heads for Turtles, Tails for Butterflies: Two More State Symbols
October brings to a close hatching season for South Carolina’s state reptile, the Loggerhead Turtle. Under the watchful eyes of dedicated volunteers, nests could be seen “boiling” along the SC coast as recently as last week. In fact, it is estimated that some 3,000 nests were found on our shores in 2008 alone. Each nest consists of as many as 125 eggs, but sadly only a handful of young turtles survive into adulthood. Because they rely on the moon’s reflection to lead them to the sea, they are often confused by man-made lights coming from beachfront homes and street lamps, which lead them in the opposite direction. Loggerheads have been on the threatened species list since 1978.
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| LOGGERHEAD TURTLE | EASTERN TIGER SWALLOWTAIL |
On the flip side, this month’s issue of SCIway News also introduces our state butterfly, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. From around mid-September through the end of October each year, butterflies flutter over South Carolina in abundance. There are dozens of varieties that flourish here, each adding color to fall’s remaining flowers. Take a moment to visit these new state symbols pages, filled with interesting facts and beautiful pictures.
October’s Featured Symbols:
- SC State Reptile: Loggerhead Turtle – Named for their large, log-shaped heads, males of this species are rarely, if ever, seen on land. Females come ashore to nest each year – amazingly on the exact same beach on which they themselves were born! Learn more about this incredible reptile by clicking the above link.
- SC State Butterfly: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail – You have probably seen these beautiful creatures with their yellow wings and bold, black stripes, floating through your lawn or garden. This is the time of year when they come out in droves to sip nectar from the flowers of early fall. Click above to learn more about the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.
