Don't Forget to Look Down!

William Wise Photo Nature Notes is a wildlife, birding and nature photography blog documenting the wonders of God’s creation. "Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them. Full of splendor and majesty is His work." Psalms 111:2

Cannonball jellyfish, Stomolophus meleagris, also known as the cabbagehead jellyfish in the sand on Hilton Head Island beach.

While birding the beaches of Hilton Head Island, my eyes were constantly trained toward the sky. However, I really needed to be looking down! The beach was covered with Cannonball Jellyfish throughout our week long visit to the Island. Never before had I seen so many jellyfish, and so large, washed up on the beach on prior visits. 

Cannonball jellyfish, Stomolophus meleagris, also known as the cabbagehead jellyfish in the sand on Hilton Head Island beach.

In addition to the jellies, there are other reasons to look down as you walk. The beaches of Hilton Head Island are used by Loggerhead Sea Turtles for nesting as well. You'd hate to step on a cute little hatchling! 

Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nesting area, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Sea turtle patrol sign marking a Loggerhead turtle nesting area on the beach and dunes. Endangered eggs and hatchlings are protected by federal and state laws. Do not disturb.

Dead Atlantic Blue Crab on Hilton Head Island beach. Callinectes sapidus, the Blue Crab, Atlantic Blue Crab, or Chesapeake blue crab, is a species of crab native to the waters of the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Large horse shoe crab washed up on Port Royal Sound, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Mitchelville Fish Haul Beach Park.

Cannonball Jelly washed up from the ocean onto the sand. Hilton Head Island beach, South Carolina. Cannonball jellyfish are mostly harmless to humans. Common on the southeastern coast of the United States, including the Gulf Coast.

Dead Atlantic Blue Crab on Hilton Head Island beach. Callinectes sapidus, the Blue Crab, Atlantic Blue Crab, or Chesapeake blue crab, is a species of crab native to the waters of the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Cannonball Jelly washed up from the ocean onto the sand. Hilton Head Island beach, South Carolina. Cannonball jellyfish are mostly harmless to humans. Common on the southeastern coast of the United States, including the Gulf Coast.