Leatherback Turtle
The Leatherback Turtle is the largest species of turtle, known for its unique leathery shell instead of a hard, bony one. They are primarily found in the open ocean, migrating long distances between feeding and nesting grounds. Leatherback Turtles are known for their impressive size, reaching lengths of up to 7 feet and weights of up to 2,000 pounds. They are also known for their distinctive ridged shells and powerful front flippers, which allow them to dive to great depths in search of their jellyfish prey. These turtles play a crucial role in marine ecosystems and are classified as critically endangered due to threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and accidental capture in fishing gear.
External Links
- [Leatherback.org] The Leatherback Trust | Protecting Leatherback Sea Turtles