June 12th
Marine Turtles
Status: Endangered to critically endangered
Number Remaining: Six of the seven species of marine turtles are listed as Endangered or
Critically Endangered, and the outlook is increasingly grim
Habitat Open water and coastal habitats
Description
- Sea turtles, also called "marine turtles," are air-breathing reptiles
with streamlined bodies and large flippers. They are well-adapted to
life in the marine environment. They inhabit tropical and subtropical
ocean waters throughout the world.
- Although sea turtles live most of their lives in the ocean, adult
females must return to beaches on land to lay their eggs. They often
migrate long distances between foraging grounds and nesting beaches.
- According to SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, a lifespan of 80 years is feasible for sea turtles
- Marine turtles are economically important to humans. In recent years, marine turtles have become increasingly important as an ecotourism attraction.
Main Threats:
- Habitat loss and degradation
- Hunting and poaching
- Trade
- Incidental capture
- Pollution
- Disease ( fibropapillomas)
- Natural predators and introduced species
What you can do to help
- Send a turtle to rehab! Help the recuperation process for thousands of sick and injured turtles. (WWF)
- Don't buy products which have been made from sea turtle parts. Guitars, ashtrays, jewellry and other products made from sea turtles are sold to tourists around the world.
Sources:
http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/species/turtles/http://www.worldwildlife.org/species/finder/marineturtles/marineturtles.html
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