Green sea turtles are magnificent, graceful creatures. These saltwater swimmers can navigate across oceans, migrating between feeding and nesting grounds.

Green sea turtles are larger than other turtles, often growing three feet long and weighing as much as 350 pounds. They have long lives, too, as some live to be 100 years old. But many are threatened long before they reach that age.

Tropical waters are home to these turtles, and scientists monitor their populations by the number of nests laid on popular nesting beaches. While turtle populations have stabilized in the Atlantic region, their numbers are declining in the Pacific.

Seabirds and ocean fish feed on turtle hatchlings, and sharks prey on adult turtles. On beaches, young turtles are threatened by seabirds, crabs, and even raccoons. But man is often the most dangerous predator. Boats, fishing gear, coastal construction, beach driving, pollution, and trash contribute to the destruction of sea turtle habitats.

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1978 listed green sea turtles as endangered and threatened animals. Today, they are endangered on Florida and Pacific breeding grounds, and they are threatened worldwide.

Anyone, anywhere, can support the conservation of sea turtles and their habitats. Beach cleanups, sea turtle walks, and hatchling release programs are a few ways to help. Presentations help raise sea turtle awareness. And simply choosing not to release balloons or litter the beach is something everyone can do to restore sea turtle habitats.The hits keep comin’: New Aquarium Exhibit turns Visitors into Sea Turtle Veterinarians!