Species · GBIF taxon 9789983
Leatherback
Dermochelys coriaceaAlso known as Lute Turtle, Leathery Turtle, Luth
Leatherback sea turtles are the undisputed giants of the turtle world, easily recognized by their dark, ridged, leathery carapaces instead of hard bony shells. These ancient mariners travel thousands of miles across open oceans, diving deeper than any other reptile to hunt soft-bodied prey in the cold depths. During the nesting season, females emerge from the surf under the cover of darkness to deposit their eggs in deep sand nests on tropical beaches.
MarineGiantMigratory
- diet
- Gelatinous zooplankton, primarily jellyfish, salps, and siphonophores
- family
- Dermochelyidae
- threats
- Marine plastic pollution, fisheries bycatch, egg poaching, and coastal development
- life Span
- 45 to 50 years
VU
Observe nesting females from a respectful distance to avoid disrupting their nesting process.
Vulnerable to extinction due to egg poaching, habitat loss, and accidental capture in commercial fishing gear.
Never touch nesting females or hatchlings, and turn off all artificial lights near nesting beaches.- Keep your distance: Maintain at least 30 feet from nesting females on beaches.
- Avoid white lights: Use red-filtered flashlights at night to prevent disorienting nesting mothers and hatchlings.
- Minimize beach obstacles: Clear away beach chairs and fill in sandcastles to ensure hatchlings reach the sea.