Explore the fascinating world of green sea turtles, their importance in the marine ecosystem, the challenges they encounter, and what we can do to help protect them

Green sea turtles are perhaps one of the most majestic creatures that inhabit the world's oceans. These ancient reptiles have been around for more than 100 million years and are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. 

Let’s explore some fun facts about green sea turtles, their importance in the marine ecosystem, the threats they face, how they're impacted by plastic pollution, and what we can do to help conserve this endangered species.

• Ancient Survivors: Green sea turtles have been roaming our oceans for over 100 million years, making them one of the oldest living species on Earth.
• Colorful Diet: Despite their name, green sea turtles are not actually green. They are named after the greenish color of their body fat, which comes from their herbivorous diet consisting mainly of seagrass and algae.
• Migratory Marvels: These turtles are known for their incredible navigation skills. They can travel thousands of miles between nesting sites and foraging areas, returning faithfully to their birthplace to lay their eggs.
• Size Matters: Green sea turtles are the largest of the hard-shelled sea turtles, with adult females reaching lengths of up to 5 feet and weighing over 700 pounds.
• Lifespan Legends: With an average lifespan of 60 to 80 years, some green sea turtles have been known to live well beyond a century.

Like most sea turtles, green sea turtles are considered an endangered species. In fact, their population has decreased by an estimated 90 percent over the past half century due to these threats.

Despite their ecological importance, green sea turtles face numerous challenges that endanger their survival:

• Habitat Loss: Coastal development, pollution, and climate change contribute to the destruction of nesting sites and foraging areas, reducing the availability of suitable habitats for green sea turtles.
• Illegal Trade: The poaching of green sea turtles and their eggs for meat, shells, and traditional medicine remains a significant threat in some regions.
• Entanglement: Fishing gear, such as nets and lines, poses a serious risk of entanglement for sea turtles, leading to injuries, drowning, or even death.
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and changing ocean currents disrupt the balance of ecosystems and affect the natural processes that guide the life cycle of green sea turtles.
• Plastic Pollution: Perhaps the most pressing threat to green sea turtles is plastic pollution. These gentle creatures often mistake plastic bags and other debris for their favorite food, jellyfish, resulting in ingestion and potential harm.

Like most sea turtles, green sea turtles are considered an endangered species. In fact, their population has decreased by an estimated 90 percent over the past half century due to these threats.

The good news is that green sea turtles are protected by national and state laws as well as international treaties. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service regularly monitors populations of green sea turtles. Restoration efforts are underway in critical habitats like the Gulf of Mexico, where nesting beaches are being restored and enhanced.

In addition to these efforts, many communities have implemented measures to protect green sea turtles including lighting ordinances during nesting season, changes to fishing practices that reduce bycatch, and making fishing off limits in some areas during nesting and hatching seasons.

We introduced our limited edition Green Sea Turtle Bracelets to help raise awareness about threats facing this endangered species and the importance of protecting and restoring their populations. Do your part and order a bracelet today!

Stay up to date