Why Green Sea Turtles Are Endangered

Habitat loss and climate change.

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By: Audrey Leonen, Journalist

Green sea turtles are one of the ocean’s most iconic and loved creatures, but unfortunately, they are also one of the most endangered. Many factors have contributed to the decline of green sea turtle populations, including habitat loss, hunting, and climate change.
One of the main reasons green sea turtles are endangered is habitat loss. These turtles use beaches and coastal areas for nesting and feeding, but many of these areas have been destroyed or degraded by human development. Coastal development, such as the construction of buildings, roads and other infrastructure, can destroy nesting sites and disrupt feeding patterns, making it difficult for green sea turtles to survive. Another major threat to green sea turtles is hunting. Green turtles have been hunted for years for their meat, shells and eggs, which were considered a delicacy in many parts of the world. Although hunting is now illegal in most countries, it still occurs in some regions, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
Climate change is also a major threat to green sea turtles. Rising temperatures and sea levels can change water temperature and salinity, which can affect turtle feeding and nesting. Climate change can also lead to more frequent and stronger storms, which can damage nesting sites and disrupt the turtles’ ability to reproduce.
Overall, the reasons why green sea turtles are endangered are complicated and multifaceted. They are the result of a combination of human activities, including habitat loss, hunting and climate change. To protect these beautiful animals and ensure their survival for future generations, we must take action to combat these threats and work to preserve the habitats and ecosystems they depend on. This includes reducing our impact on coastal areas, enforcing anti-hunting and anti-poaching laws, and taking action to reduce our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change.

RELATED STORIES:

https://www.conservation.org/blog/news-spotlight-a-sea-turtle-sanctuary-has-thrived-for-40-years.-climate-change-could-change-that

https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/local-news/2021-05-24/keep-distance-bright-lights-away-from-endangered-nesting-sea-turtles

https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2023/04/03/meet-schoona-the-giant-endangered-turtle-joining-ripleys-aquarium-in-toronto.html

https://www.aza.org/connect-stories/stories/texas-state-aquarium-releases-nine-stranded-endangered-loggerhead-sea-turtles-rescue-rehab

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https://www.seeturtles.org/save-the-turtles

https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/what-can-you-do-save-sea-turtles

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