Sea-Turtle Habitat

Sea turtles have roamed the world’s waters for millions of years. Their sleek bodies and large flippers distinguish them, but--unlike land turtles--they cannot tuck their heads and legs inside their shells. These reptiles range from 30 inches to six feet in length, and can live for 80 years or more. There are currently seven species of sea turtles inhabiting both coastal and open waters around the world; all of these species are classified as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.

  1. Habitat

    • Adult sea turtles are found in warm and temperate waters around the world, in bodies of water such as lagoons and estuaries. They often spend most of their time in shallow, coastal waters, but some turtles do venture into the open sea. Sea turtles can be found in all of the world's oceans except the Arctic Ocean.

    Dietary Habits

    • The diet of the sea turtle varies by species. Many sea turtles are carnivores, but some only eat plants. Some species also vary their eating habits over the course of their lifespan. Most sea turtles eat crustaceans and small fish, but their dietary habits are generally dictated by jaw structure.

    Migratory Habits

    • As with all reptiles, the body temperature of sea turtles is dependent on the surrounding climate. As cold weather approaches, some species may travel as many as 1,400 miles en route to nesting grounds. Female sea turtles come onto the beach to lay their eggs--up to 200 at a time.

    Destruction of Habitat

    • Unfortunately, the habitat and reproduction of sea turtles is threatened by a number of factors. Like any animal, the sea turtle has natural predators, such as sharks and birds; newborn turtles often do not complete the journey to the water. Changing beach conditions and coastal degradation also threaten the nesting grounds that the turtles need. In addition, man-made debris and fisheries accidentally take the lives of sea turtles every year--as do human predators that intentionally deal in turtle-shell trading.

    Conservation

    • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Fisheries Office of Protected Resources is charged with protecting sea turtles in U.S. waters. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also does a lot of work to recover sea turtles and protect their habitats. The World Wildlife Fund is active in raising awareness about the plight of the sea turtles as well as lobbying for legal agreements that can help ensure a bright future for these ancient species.