Hatteras

Cape Hatteras consists of nearly 200 miles of narrow barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. These islands are known as the marlin capital of the world, as well as having some of the highest density and biodiversity of sea life along the entire American East Coast with more than 80 fish species and five out of the seven sea turtle species. Unfortunately, Cape Hatteras faces threats from off-road vehicles, dumping, global sea level rise and prospective oil drilling. However, several marine protected areas have already been established along the east coast, and organizations like Plastic Ocean Project are working to earn Cape Hatteras a spot on that list to protect its species from oil drilling threats and to ensure a healthy future for this unique ecosystem.

Protected Species

Sea Turtles