top of page

Endangered Sea Turtles

sea turtles.jpg

As of 2022, there are over 2,000 endangered and threatened species in the United States and foreign countries listed under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). Many species, whether that be plants or animals, are vital to our environment because they help maintain the survival of the planet and those living on it. They also provide for the many necessities that people use every day. However, environmental issues and human activities are causing a decline in them. Sea turtles are no exception. They are marine reptiles that inhabit the Earth's ocean. There are seven species of sea turtles: Leatherback, Green Turtle, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, Kemp’s Ridley, and Flatback (Bennett). Six out of these seven species are classified as endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Sea turtles are important and vital to the ocean’s ecosystem. Sea turtles keep the ocean healthy and play an important role in balancing the food web. Unfortunately, sea turtles are on the verge of becoming extinct. Although more sea turtles are diminishing, it is important to know the causes to prevent them from leaving this world too soon. Sea turtles are endangered because of overexploitation, climate change, and the harmful effects of pollution, and by becoming aware of the threats, it could prevent extinction.

Click to See the Seven Different Sea Turtles
bottom of page