What Is a Loggerhead?

Loggerhead is a term that often refers to a large sea turtle that is found in various parts of the world. The Loggerhead is the state animal of South Carolina. This type of turtle is often seen by those who live in bay areas around the world, and it often comes in contact with boaters and fishermen.

  1. Identification

    • The Loggerhead sea turtle is identified by its large size, the very typical brownish red color on the shell and its yellowish brown skin. These turtles are also distinguishable from others because compared to the rest of their bodies, they have an abnormally large head.

    Features

    • The Loggerhead is notable because it is the only member of a specific genus, which is Caretta. These sea turtles are also known for their very large and powerful jaws, which come in handy when they feed on fish, crabs, shrimp, clams and other sea life. Loggerhead turtles nest in the same areas in which they are often found, they simply leave the water and bury hundreds of eggs at a time.

    Size

    • The size of the Loggerhead sea turtle is its most notable feature. These turtles can be up to 800 pounds and can be as long as three and a half feet long. This large size makes it hard for anyone to miss these animals as they make their way through the shallow waters.

    Geography

    • This large sea turtle resides in the shallow waters in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. The turtles can generally be found in areas such as the mouths of rivers, lagoons, creeks, ship channels, and even salt marshes and bays. Generally, the turtles will feed in coral reefs or even in rocky areas, as there is usually an abundant amount of sea life.

    Risk Factors

    • The Loggerhead sea turtle is at risk and is protected in most areas of the world. The Loggerhead has seen a large decline in numbers due to the fishing business as shrimp fisherman unintentionally catch them and cause injury or even death. Another issue is that the turtles are found in waters where boating is very common and they are often hit and killed by the propellers on the boat. The conservation efforts are aimed at improving the populations of the Loggerhead in all areas of the world.