Green Sea Turtle
Distribution
Oceans of the world (except Antarctica)
Diet
Herbivore
Habitat
Warm seas
Latin Name
Chelonia mydas
IUCN conservation status
Thought to be the largest hard-shelled sea turtle, it roams the seas and only comes out to lay its eggs!
Interesting informations
The only sea turtles to be strictly herbivorous when they reach adulthood.
They feed mainly on algae and sea grass. Juveniles tend to be rather omnivorous, feeding on both small invertebrates and algae, until they reach about 25 cm in diameter. In zoos, they are fond of romaine lettuce.
A Hydrodynamic Body and Front Legs that Act as Oars
From the moment they hatch, they spend their entire lives in the water. Only the females return to land to lay their eggs. Their front legs have developed into swimming paddles, allowing them to swim quickly and with great ease. When they are active, they usually come up for air every 5 minutes.
A Solitary Existence, Meeting Randomly with Their Congeners
The species is tolerant of other turtles. Green turtles go about their lives alone but can be found in the presence of others, especially during feeding periods. Cleaning stations, where they go to get rid of parasites and algae, are also conducive to gatherings.
Mostly Affected by the Loss of Egg-laying Sites
This species is sensitive to human activities: first, they prefer fine sandy beaches to lay their eggs, the same beaches are coveted by vacationers. Commercial fishing and nautical activities also claim several victims, with turtles becoming entangled in nets or being injured by boats.
Featured animals
Kaila
Date of birth
Between May 1st and September 1st, 1997
Weight
171.7 lb / 77.9 kg
Profile
Born in the Cayman Islands as part of a sea turtle research program, Kaila joined the Zoo in 2011. He lives in the largest tank in the South Pacific Odyssey pavilion with our sharks!
Fun fact
Kaila is trained to be fed on a platform. This space is used to desensitize our turtle for quick medical check-ups, so we're able to handle its legs and neck.
