Predator exclusion cages over known nests of Diamondback terrapins, (Malaclemys terrapin); Avalon, New Jersey. When a female terrapin lays a nest of eggs, volunteers cover the area to protect the hatchlings from predation. The nests are checked daily for hatching and the baby terrapins are then released by hand into nearby water. Terrapins are listed as endangered or threatened by many states along the U.S. Atlantic coast.