Species · GBIF taxon 8894817
Loggerhead
Caretta carettaAlso known as Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Loggerhead
Loggerhead sea turtles are massive marine reptiles named for their exceptionally large heads and powerful jaws, which they use to crush hard-shelled prey. They spend their lives navigating open oceans and coastal waters, with females undertaking epic migrations back to their natal beaches to lay eggs. These ancient mariners play a vital role in marine ecosystems by maintaining healthy sea floor habitats through their foraging activities.
MarineMigratoryReptile
- diet
- Carnivorous, feeding on crabs, clams, sea urchins, and other hard-shelled invertebrates
- family
- Cheloniidae
- threats
- Bycatch in fishing gear, coastal development, marine pollution, and climate change
- life Span
- 70 to 80 years or more
VU
Possesses incredibly powerful jaws; maintain a respectful distance and never touch or disturb nesting females.
Loggerheads are vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss, marine debris, and disturbance of nesting sites.
Never approach nesting females or hatchlings, and report injured turtles to local wildlife authorities immediately.- Keep your distance: Stay at least 50 feet away from turtles on land or in the water.
- Minimize light: Turn off flashlights and beachside lights at night during nesting season to avoid disorienting hatchlings.
- Clear the path: Remove beach chairs, umbrellas, and trash from nesting beaches before sunset.