Sea Turtles

Sea turtles are a vital part of the marine ecosystem, and several species can be found in the waters around Sri Lanka, including the Green Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, and Leatherback Turtle. These ancient mariners are known for their remarkable life cycles and long migrations.

Physical Characteristics: Sea turtles exhibit a range of sizes and weights depending on the species. Typically, they measure between 70-150 cm (28-59 inches) in length and can weigh anywhere from 70-700 kg (154-1543 lbs). They possess streamlined bodies and flippers perfectly adapted for swimming long distances. Their hard shells, or carapaces, come in various colors and patterns unique to each species, offering protection and aiding in camouflage.

Habitat: Sea turtles inhabit tropical and subtropical oceans, with Sri Lanka’s coastal waters and beaches serving as crucial habitats. They thrive in coral reefs, seagrass beds, and open oceans, with nesting sites predominantly found along the southern and eastern coasts of Sri Lanka. These sandy beaches are essential for their reproductive cycles, as females return to lay eggs where they were born.

Diet: The diet of sea turtles varies by species:

• Green Turtles: Primarily herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and algae.
• Loggerhead Turtles: Carnivorous, consuming crustaceans, mollusks, and jellyfish.
• Hawksbill Turtles: Feed mainly on sponges but also eat small invertebrates.
• Olive Ridley Turtles: Omnivorous, eating a mix of jellyfish, shrimp, and algae.
• Leatherback Turtles: Primarily feed on jellyfish.

Behavior: Sea turtles are known for their extensive migrations between feeding grounds and nesting sites. They exhibit natal homing, with females returning to the same beaches where they were hatched to lay their eggs. Nesting occurs at night, with females digging nests in the sand to deposit dozens to hundreds of eggs. Hatchlings emerge after about two months and make a perilous journey to the ocean, guided by the moonlight.

Conservation Status: The conservation status of sea turtles varies by species, with many listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Threats include habitat loss, poaching, bycatch in fisheries, and pollution. Conservation efforts in Sri Lanka focus on protecting nesting sites, reducing bycatch, and raising public awareness about the importance of these creatures.

Lifespan: In the wild, sea turtles typically live between 50-80 years, although some individuals can surpass 100 years. Their longevity and late maturity underscore the importance of conservation efforts to ensure their survival.