Category: About

Diamondback Terrapin Nesting

CONSERVATION 

By Michelle Kaylor, Rehabilitation Manager

The 2018 Diamondback Terrapin nesting season officially ended on August 2nd.  From the first Terrapin found on April 19th to the last on July 20th, 492 adult female Diamondback Terrapins were encountered on the Jekyll Island Causeway attempting to nest.  Of those 492, 381 individuals were safely worked up and moved off the road– that’s a save rate of about 80 percent!  A total of 173 eggs were collected from females who were unfortunately hit by cars during their attempt to cross the road and placed in our incubators.  We are happy to say that over 117 eggs have already successfully hatched!

The 2018 Diamondback Terrapin Road Season could not have run so smoothly without the support from the Jekyll Island Foundation and its donors.  We were able to purchase a much-needed jump seat for our DBT van. The seat positively influences Diamondback Terrapin road patrols by allowing for another individual to go on road patrols and ride safely in a seat with a seatbelt. We were also able to purchase reflective vest for all our staff on patrol so that they can be safely seen by motorist on and off the roadway.

Sun, Sand, and Sea Turtle Nests

CONSERVATION 

By Breanna Ondich, GSTC Research Specialist

Jekyll Island is one of only two remaining islands in the state of Georgia that continues to patrol its beaches at night in search of nesting sea turtle. All in all, the patrol team encountered 46 different sea turtle moms depositing their precious eggs beneath the earth. Jekyll Island’s grand total was 121 nests, roughly seven percent of Georgia’s 1,741 total nests. All of the nests on our beaches were deposited by Loggerhead Sea Turtles, while a few other islands had some visiting Green Sea Turtles, and one Kemp’s Ridley. Another sandy summer has gone by and ~8,200 hatchling sea turtles have crawled out to sea.

It was as long ago as 1958 that the very first loggerhead sea turtle was tagged while nesting on Jekyll Island, and we have since compiled a huge list of all of our sea turtle mothers. Of the 46 sea turtles we were able to catch this summer, we know that 22 of those were returning to Jekyll Island from a previous summer and 24 of them were untagged and were encountered by researchers for the very first time on Jekyll. If you include knowledge gained by partnering with the Northern Recovery Unit Loggerhead DNA Project (University of Georgia), loggerhead sea turtles lay an average of four nests each summer that they nest. This summer, three different turtles – “Newman,” “Dr. Shelly MacCaretta: Chelonian Ambassador to the Sea,” and “Adelaide”– went above average and tied for having the most nests on Jekyll Island in 2018 with six nests each!

Tagging sea turtles and managing nests is important, but so are our education efforts. Thanks to the generous support of the Jekyll Island Foundation and its donors, we were able to continue our very popular Ride with Patrol program, which allows up to four guests at a time to ride along with us in the utility task vehicles and get a first-hand look of what it’s like to be a sea turtle biologist. At least 182 people participated in the program this year, and we spoke to 1,570 additional people on the beach during our Turtle Walk and Sunrise Walk eco-tour programs. Twenty-two of our nests were sponsored by 48 parents in our Nest Trackers program. Beyond our regularly scheduled programs, our patrol team educated over 3,098 additional people incidentally on the beach about sea turtles and intercepted 1,198 people with white lights to hand out red cellophane to turn those lights into red turtle-friendly lights instead.

As the oldest and largest research project on Jekyll Island, none of this would be possible without the support of all of our collaborators: The Jekyll Island Authority – Georgia Sea Turtle Center, AmeriCorps, The Jekyll Island Foundation, The University of Georgia, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Thank you for another successful nesting season here on Jekyll Island!

Turtles Get New Digital X-ray System 

CONSERVATION 

By Dr. Terry Norton, Director and Veterinarian

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center receives hundreds of injured and ill wildlife patients each year. Patients treated at the GSTC include sea turtles, diamondback terrapins, native freshwater and land turtles, alligators, snakes, and birds. Since opening its doors in 2007, the GSTC has successfully treated and released over 2,500 animals.

A wide range of problems are encountered in the wildlife received including hit by boat, hit by car, fishing line and hook injuries, starvation, buoyancy issues, and many more. Diagnostic testing is performed to figure out what the problem might be in a particular patient and may include blood work, radiographs or X-rays, endoscopy and even CT scans.  X-rays are something we typically do on each patient upon entry and often several times during the rehabilitation process. A digital X-ray unit was purchased in 2007 when the GSTC opened its doors. Digital X-ray technology has improved dramatically during this time and the older machine was no longer state of the art and needed to be replaced. Thankfully through the generous donations from the Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. LLC, Tybee Island Marine Science Center, and others we were able to purchase a new digital X-ray unit from Vet Rocket. The X-rays taken with this unit have superior resolution and a much more efficient storage capability. Additionally, it is much easier and quicker to take X-rays.  In a very short period of time we have taken hundreds of X-rays with the new unit.

We would like to thank our donors and the Jekyll Island Foundation for the purchase of this amazing technology.

Hollybourne Cottage Structural Repairs

PRESERVATION 

By Bruce PIatek, JIA Director of Historic Resources

Ken Smith Architects and Fourth Street Design and Restoration did a wonderful job of restoration of the Hollybourne Cottage. This is one of the most iconic buildings in the National Historic Landmark District. The building was at risk of structural failure and partial collapse. The most at risk part of the structure was the parapets along the roof line. These poured tabby elements were never connected to the internal wooden structure of the building. Furthermore, the rusting of the steel lintels, or supports, over the window and door openings had caused rust jacking that broke the adhesive bond between the tabby courses. The result was that the parapets and sections of the exterior tabby walls were only held in place by gravity. In some places the rust jacking was so bad that one half to three quarter inch cracks existed under the parapets and daylight could be seen through these cracks.  Hollybourne was literally falling apart.

Once I realized the scope of the problem, I called in Ken Smith, one of the only architects that have worked on large pour tabby buildings like Hollybourne. Ken had experience working on Henry Flagler buildings in St. Augustine that were built about the same time and with the same materials. Ken and Structural Engineer Jude Kostage developed the approach to support the tabby walls while the support lintels were removed and new support components were installed. Fourth Street Design and Restoration executed the plans which also included connecting exterior walls at the parapets to the interior wooden structure of the building. There work was outstanding and they showed a passion for doing a good job and getting it done right. There was risk involved in the work. A failure of a temporary support over a window or door opening could have brought down a section of the exterior wall.

The Jekyll Island Foundation’s generous donors helped to defray the cost of the architectural and engineering services that were the key element in the success of this important restoration project.  Donor’s contributions helped to insure that Hollybourne Cottage will remain a spectacular architectural example and important historic asset in our National Historic Landmark District for years to come.

Wilson’s Plover Nesting

CONSERVATION 

By Yank Moore, JIA Conservation Land Manager

This year was a tempestuous season for Jekyll Island’s Wilson’s Plovers with record highs and lows. This season the JIA Conservation Staff identified a Jekyll-record 34 Wilson’s Plover nests. After a rough beginning to the season where fish crows moved in and depredated more than 10 nests, we made the decision to remove all camera monitoring equipment to reduce the chance of attracting more attention by fish crows. After a couple more weeks of the crows hanging around, they finally moved away from the beaches and the plovers began a resurgence to ensure a successful season. Nine of the last 10 nests laid on the beach survived the full incubation period of 25-32 days and hatched a total of more than 26 chicks. We banded 16 of those with 9 of those surviving to fledging (first flight) along with 3 other non-banded chicks. We are hopeful for a return to Jekyll by some of these birds once they become adults and begin to nest on their own.

The nesting habitat was ideal again this year with more expansive open-dune habitat with low rolling dunes with sparse vegetation created by the high tides and storm surge from Hurricane Irma last Fall. With the benefit of good habitat and stewardship, we have seen the population of Wilson’s Plover grow in the number of adult nesting pairs over the last 3 years.  With enduring help from the Jekyll Island Foundation, we will continue to monitor our small nesting population again next year, hoping for another record breaking year on Jekyll. Always remember, if you enjoy Jekyll’s beach with your dog (or cat!), never allow them to chase birds, keep them on a leash, and respect the “no pets” area on the south end of the island. These rules are in place to keep Jekyll’s beach a haven for birds like the Wilson’s Plovers that may be one day be lost if not for our careful stewardship.

Major Horton Road Restored

CONSERVATION / PRESERVATION

By Ben Carswell, JIA Director of Conservation

The Foundation’s initiative to make one of the island’s oldest roads available for all to experience and enjoy is nearing completion. Major Horton Road connects the Historic Horton House colonial site on the west side of the island to the Horton Pond natural area on the east side of the island. The road is an unpaved route quite possibly dating back to colonial times when the Horton House was occupied, but first appearing on maps in 1918, during the Jekyll Island Club era. Prior to the Foundation’s initiative, the road had been little maintained and only rarely used for service needs. As such, the road was used by a few adventurous folks in the know, but was overgrown, and not at all oriented toward accommodating or educating visitors.

The Foundation saw a great opportunity in this project to create connectivity between the Horton House site and the Horton Pond site so that visitors can park in the small lots at either site and experience both while enjoying a walk in the woods along a historic route between. The trail is 0.7 miles each way between the sites, and ties into the Tupelo Trail loop for another ½ mile, opening up a total of about 2 miles of light hiking in the otherwise relatively inaccessible maritime forest on the North end of Jekyll Island. Adding a visit to Driftwood Beach presents another easily walkable side trip along this route. The Horton Road Connector Trail project adds to the Foundation’s success with the improvements at Horton Pond, another JIF initiative completed a few years ago that similarly started with a site that left a lot to be desired from the visitor’s perspective and transformed it into a welcoming natural amenity that allows visitors to safely and comfortably experience a unique and beautiful part of Jekyll Island.

We are excited to report that the biggest pieces of the project, pruning the vegetation along the route and resurfacing the trail with crushed limestone, are now complete. Two interpretive panels are now in-design to complete the project. The Foundation’s close partnership with the Jekyll Island Authority is crucial to our success with initiatives such as this. Without the JIAs in-kind contribution of labor to clear and construct the trail, the price tag of the project would have been much higher. Major Horton Road will now be maintained to match the same standards as the interior unpaved-trail network on the south end of the island. The new trail-surface changes from limestone to mulch as it nears Horton Pond because at this point the trail moves off of the original historic road on to land classified as “undeveloped” and becomes subject to associated conservation protections.

Wanderer Memory Trail Opening

EVENTS

By Jessica Scott, JIA Marketing Communications Manager

On November 28, 1858, more than 400 men, women, and children were brought to shore on Jekyll Island. Illegally smuggled into the United States aboard the Wanderer, a luxury yacht turned slave ship, these captives were among the last groups of enslaved Africans sold into slavery in America.

On November 17, 2018, Jekyll Island Authority will officially open the new Wanderer Memory Trail at St. Andrews Beach Park. The trail follows the story of Umwalla, a young African boy captured by slave traders and smuggled into America on one of the last known slave ships. From capture in his central African village to being sold in auction to a new master, Umwalla’s story will touch the hearts of all who experience it.

This interactive learning experience moves beyond a dark time in history and brings to light the legacy and influence of the survivors of slavery on the Georgia coast. Through Umwalla’s story, a message of hope and freedom shines.

Visitors will be invited to walk through Umwalla’s journey from Central Africa to Jekyll Island and beyond through this new trail experience. The opening ceremony will include guest speakers, trail interpretation, special music, and a moment of remembrance.

The Wanderer Memory Trail Opening

3:30 to 5 p.m., Saturday, November 17, 2018

St. Andrews Beach Park

Holly Jolly Jekyll is Here

EVENTS 

November 17 – January 6, see calendar for hours

By Jessica Scott, JIA Marketing Communications Manager

It’s the most wonderful time of the year on Jekyll Island. We have “snow” and “ice” skating and plenty of holiday cheer. The Holly Jolly Jekyll season is full of fun for the whole family. Here are a few highlights of the season. Check out the full season of activities.

Jekyll Island Skating Village

Opening November 17, Jekyll Island “ice” skating is back and in a new riverfront location for the 2018-19 season. Located in the picturesque Historic District, the Jekyll Island Skating Village features a synthetic ice rink and real ice skates. This unique surface takes the pain and cold out of ice skating and is easy for kids and adults of all ages. Skate on Jekyll Island among history, under ancient oaks, and with a spectacular view of the Jekyll River. No reservations required, but there is a cost of $5 per person.

Pier Road Pajama Party

Friday, November 23, 8-11 a.m.

Kick-off the holiday shopping season in your jammies! Shoppers donning their family-friendly pajamas will receive discounts from the Pier Road shops, and prizes for the best pajamas. Enjoy visits with Santa and holiday music as you stroll through the historic cottage shops filled with gifts perfect for holiday shopping. Prizes will be awarded for the best individual and family pajamas.

Movie on the Green

Friday, November 23, 5:30 p.m.

Join us for a special holiday edition of the Jekyll Island Movie on the Green series with “The Santa Clause.” Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy this new holiday classic on Jekyll Island. This event is free and open to the public. All are welcome.

Jekyll Island Tree Lighting Festival

Saturday, November 24, 2-8 p.m.

Ring in the holidays with the lighting of the great tree in Jekyll Island’s Historic District. Celebrate this holly jolly event with the whole family.

This one-day festival is full of holiday magic and is sure to put even the grinchiest Grinch in the holiday spirit. Festivities begin with a Candy Cane Hunt and continue with Story Time with Santa throughout the day. Be sure to write your letter and mail it directly through the North Pole Express.

Cross off your holiday shopping list with unique gifts at the Holiday Market. Dance and sing along to your favorite holiday tunes, with live music by the area’s favorite bands.

As the sun begins to set, grab a cup of cocoa and settle on the Main Lawn for the big show. The tree will be lit and skies will sparkle with fireworks as the holiday season officially begins on Jekyll Island.

Holidays in History

December 1-31

Once a year, the cottages of the historic district get dressed in their finest holiday decorations just for you. Enjoy a 90-minute tram tour when Jekyll Island’s National Historic Landmark District is wrapped in seasonal splendor. This guided tour of the 240-acre historic district includes entry into two cottages, decorated for the holiday season, as well as Faith Chapel. Reservations recommended.

Christmas Twilight Tours

Saturdays, December 1-29, 4 p.m.

Explore a magical time of year in Jekyll Island’s historic district. This special evening tram tour highlights heart-warming holiday tales and the lights and decorations of the season on Jekyll Island. The 90-minute Christmas celebration includes a unique tour of Faith Chapel and concludes with light refreshments and sunset views from Indian Mound Cottage. Reservations required.

Santa at the Skeet House

Saturdays, December 1-22, 1-4 p.m.

Christmas is coming, so get your visit with the big man in before the big day is here. Visit with Santa on the porch of historic Skeet House, located in Jekyll Island’s beautiful National Historic Landmark District every Saturday in December, from 1 to 4 p.m. Visits are free, but don’t forget your camera to capture this special moment. This event is free.

Victorian Christmas Craft

Saturdays, December 1-22, 2-4 p.m.

Get in the holiday spirit with a holiday-themed craft set among the stunning winter cottages that once belonged to Gilded Age millionaires. Join historical figures from Jekyll Island’s Christmas past to create a charming handmade holiday treasure, just like members of the Jekyll Island Club once made. These period-inspired handicrafts offer a fun and festive activity to delight kids and adults of all ages. No reservations required, but there is a cost of $5 per person.

Holly Jolly Jekyll Parade

Saturday, December 15, 5:30-7 p.m.

Santa has his sleigh and Jekyll Island has golf carts! Join in the fun of the festive Holly Jolly Jekyll Parade, where golf carts don their Christmas best and jingle all the way to Beach Village.

Island guests and residents are encouraged to watch the parade along the route, and afterwards meet in Beach Village to view all of the participants. While you’re there, enjoy holiday music, compete in holiday trivia and an ugly sweater contest, and work on your Christmas shopping lists at the Pier Road and Beach Village shops. Everyone is encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for the Georgia State Patrol’s Toys for Tots drive. Learn more about awards and entry here.

Holiday Light Displays

November 17 – January 6, sunset to midnight

Holiday magic abounds on Jekyll Island this holiday season. Enjoy twinkling light-wrapped oaks and traditional holiday décor in the Historic District. Beginning November 24, the Great Tree will light up the main lawn. Delight in whimsical holiday scenes depicted in colorful light displays in Beach Village and along Great Dunes Beach Park. Bring the family and see if you can count all the lights.

Mailbox on Main

November – December 21

The North Pole Express mail box will be available at the corner of Main Street and Ocean Avenue in the Beach Village. All the good boys and girls are invited send their letters to Santa Claus.

It’s February and the month of love. After running our #LOVEJekyllIsland photo contest in the fall, we heard and saw how many of you LOVE Jekyll Island. How exciting! And here are the results…

Each photo shared, each heartfelt testimony penned, were so special. Thank you for opening your hearts, your legacies, your family times, and your contining desire for ambassadorship of this special place. We feel the same way, which is why we work so hard to accomplish our mission.

JIF MEMBERS

We heard your desire to get involved in our efforts to Conserve, Preserve, and Educate, and we’ve answered with our new member’s program. Check it out!

With memberships starting as low ae $35, everyone can join!

MOSAIC moving full-steam ahead

The Trolley Tours and Museum Gift Shop have been relocated to the Infirmary (previously the bookstore), selective demolition begins this month, construction is set to launch in March, with an open date of first quarter 2019! Keep an eye out for our next newsletter – more ways to get involved!

CURRENT INITIATIVESGive Now

Horton House to Horton Pond Trail Extension

Due to its popularity, we’re extending the Horton Pond Tupelo Trail! The proposed route, a historic road dating back presumably to the period when the Horton House was an occupied plantation, will physically connect two of Jekyll’s historical and natural points of interest.

Hollybourne Cottage Lintel Repair

Hollybourne Cottage lintels (support structures) over the door and window openings have rusted, expanded, and then cracked the tabby walls, causing the exterior walls to become structurally unstable.  Your gift will assist with repair and preservation.

DIAMONDBACK TERRAPIN CONSERVATION

Assist the Georgia Sea Turtles Center in their efforts to help protect Jekyll terrapins.