Sea turtles, according to the World Wide Fund for Nature, have been navigating the deep, blue sea for over 100 million years. Seeturtles.org states that there are currently seven unique species of sea turtles. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that six of these species can be found swimming in U.S. waters.
According to the WWF, the majority of marine reptile species are currently classified as endangered, with three species considered critically endangered.
Sea turtles have a remarkable ability to live long lives, although it is challenging for scientists to determine their exact life expectancies. Nonetheless, it is widely recognized that these majestic reptiles enjoy a considerable lifespan.
How long do sea turtles live?
Estimates regarding the lifespan of sea turtles can vary. As mentioned by the WWF, “it is challenging to accurately determine the age of any sea turtle species.” Interestingly, sea turtles have lifespans that are comparable to those of humans.
Sea turtles are known to have a natural lifespan ranging from 50 to 100 years, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Sea turtles typically take 20 to 30 years to reach maturity, and they can continue to reproduce for up to 10 years after that, as stated by the WWF. The Sea Turtle Conservancy also reports that certain species may take as long as 50 years to reach reproductive maturity.
What do sea turtles eat?
Sea turtles of different species have distinct feeding habits.
Different types of sea turtles have varying dietary preferences. For instance, flatback sea turtles are omnivores and consume both plants and animals. On the other hand, loggerheads are primarily carnivores and seldom eat plants. Leatherbacks fall into the category of “gelatinivores” as they predominantly feed on gelatinous prey such as jellyfish and sea squirts. In contrast, hawksbill sea turtles are referred to as “spongivores” due to their preference for consuming sponges. These distinctions in diet are highlighted by the Sea Turtle Preservation Society.
Do all sea turtles live in the ocean?
Sea turtles spend the majority of their lives in the ocean, with only female sea turtles venturing onto land to lay their eggs, as stated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Female sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach during the summer. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, they dig a nest in the sand and have the ability to lay up to 100 eggs. It takes approximately 60 days for the eggs to hatch, and once they do, the baby sea turtles instinctively make their way back into the ocean.
