The 6 Species Of Endangered Turtles

Turtles have existed in some form for millions of years, so it’s hard to believe that so many of them are in danger of becoming extinct.

Both freshwater and marine turtles are in great danger.

About half of the known species are threatened at this time, which means that around 150 species are at risk.

In fact, between turtles and tortoises, they are the world’s most endangered vertebrates. 

Sea turtles are turtles that live in the oceans and are at extreme risk due to their isolation and needs.

Sea turtles require temperate waters, beaches, and shores for feeding and nesting, and sea grasses and open waters to search for food.

With recreational activities on the shore and commercial oil and fishing operations in the waters, the sea turtles face a constant struggle.

All 7 Species And Their Conservation Status

Out of the 7 species of sea turtles 6 are classified as endangered or vulnerable. The 7th species, being the Flatback sea turtle Is listed as data deficient.

• Leatherback

Leatherback Sea turtles are known for their tough skin and enormous size. They are classified as Vulnerable.

• Green Turtle

Green turtles are large turtles that eat sea grasses and algae. Green turtles are at especially high risk and are classified as Endangered.

• Flatback

These turtles live in coastal waters around Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. These turtles are very isolated and difficult to study. They are absolutely at risk since they have the same problem that other sea turtles face, but since they are so isolated they are currently classified as Data Deficient.

• Loggerhead

The turtles have big heads that give them their names. These turtles mature very slowly and aren’t fully mature until they are over 30 years old, so if they are affected by environmental and other factors, they don’t get the opportunity to breed. They are classified as Vulnerable.

• Hawksbills

The Hawksbill Sea Turtles live in Pacific and Atlantic oceans. They prefer tropical environments and live in shallows which puts them at higher risk than other marine animals. They are classified as Critically Endangered.

• Kemp’s Ridley

These are one of the smallest of the sea turtles and have a shorter life span than some sea turtles. Their size and their short live spans put them on the Critically Endangered list.

• Olive Ridley

Olive-colored turtles that are small compared to some sea turtles and prefer to eat jellyfish and crustaceans. They will eat algae if they cannot find other food sources. They are classified as Vulnerable.

Conservation Status Clarity

Endangered:

There is a very high risk that they may face extinction.

Vulnerable:

Data Deficient:

Also in Sea Turtle Blog