Dermochelys coriacea
Leatherback Sea Turtle
Maximum Size:
10 ft (3 m), 1100 lbs (500 kg)
Longevity:
Up to 80 years.
Typical depth:
0–4000 ft (0–1220 m)
Behavior:
The leatherback sea turtle is the largest of all living turtles. They feed primarily on jellyfish and tunicates in deep water during the day and at the surface during the night, following the daily migratory patterns of their food. During the mating season, leatherbacks may migrate up to 3,000 miles (4,800 kilometers) from their feeding grounds to their nesting beaches. The leatherback’s common name comes from the leathery texture and appearance of its carapace. This is also reflected in the scientific name, which literally translates to “leathery skin turtle”. Leatherbacks are found globally, with a range that extends as far north as Alaska and Norway and as far south as the southernmost tip of New Zealand. Their conservation status is considered vulnerable.
Predators:
Adults are consumed by large sharks, such as tiger sharks and orcas (killer whales).
Did you know?
Instead of teeth, leatherback sea turtles have points on the upper lip of their beak, along with backward-facing spines in their throat (esophagus) that help them swallow prey and to stop its escaping once caught.
