There are seven species of marine turtles found worldwide. Of these, six are considered either endangered or critically endangered.
Most at risk is the Leatherback, specifically those populations in the Pacific, but Green turtles in the Mediterranean are decreasing in number at an alarming rate, as well.
Hawksbill turtles are perhaps most threatened because their shells are in high demand.
Every species of marine turtle is listed on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); this prohibits trading in the animals amongst all member countries.
Problems Facing Marine Turtles
Although female turtles are able to lay hundreds of eggs each nesting season, most do not make it to their first birthday. A number of predators such as foxes, birds, and crabs lay in wait for the hatchlings to travel to the water from their nest. Even if they do reach the sea, fish are liable to make them dinner. Not only natural predators are at fault in the high infant mortality rate; humans offer harvest the eggs for food.
Surviving youngsters do not mature for decades. Because it takes so long for marine turtles to reach breeding age, it is important that existing adults reproduce regularly to ensure the population grows. This becomes more difficult as the adult mortality rate increases due to fishing nets and lines and pollution.
It should be clear that protection of marine turtles is vital throughout all stages of their life cycle. Not only do nesting beaches need to be patrolled but ocean waters must be cleaned and fishing regulations enforced. This will require the cooperation of all nations.
WWF’s Conservation Efforts
The World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) has a Global Marine Turtle Programme in place to help marine turtles survive in greater numbers.
They are working to manage and maintain native habitats of the turtle whilst reducing accidental death from fishing equipment and enforcing rules against trading in marine turtles and products from them.
In order to accomplish these objectives, WWF is currently establishing protected nesting beaches. They are promoting marine turtle habitats for ecotourism, providing a benefit to both the endangered species and the local residents and encouraging personal involvement in conservation efforts.
WWF also works with various government departments to establish conservation agreements and increase patrols to enforce laws against illegal trading of turtle products.
With every species of marine turtle considered threatened or endangered, the problem of future extinction is very possible.
Find out more about turtles, including the different types and the habitat of a Hawksbill Turtle.