Information on the Loggerhead Sea Turtle

The loggerhead sea turtle is found all around the world and is easily identifiable, especially when compared with other turtles in and out of the sea. This turtle is seen often by those who fish or boat, as well as those that live or frequent the bay areas of several oceans.

Geography

The loggerhead sea turtle enjoys the more shallow waters of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans. The turtle is often seen in the creeks, ship canals, salt marshes, bays and lagoons of these bodies of waters. The loggerheads are found feeding in and around shipwrecks, coral reefs and areas that have rock crevices.

Identification

The loggerhead turtle is so easily identifiable because of its very large head and jaws, which are large not just in relation to those of other turtles, but also in relation to the rest of their body. The loggerhead sea turtle boasts a beautiful reddish brown shell and yellowish brown skin.

Size

The loggerhead can grow up to be 800 pounds and can be as long as three and a half feet. Because these animals are so large and enjoy the shallow waters, it is easy to spot them.

Features

Other notable features associated with the loggerhead sea turtle include their powerful jaws that allow them to feed on sea life such as fish, shrimp, clams, mussels and crabs. Their vise-like jaws allow them to bite into the shells on sea creatures. These sea turtles are also notable, as they are the one and only member of the caretta genus.

Risk Factors

The loggerheads' only risk to humans is their capacity to damage boats. Unintentionally, boaters hit these large turtles every year, often causing damage to the boat and usually killing the turtle. Because of these mishaps and their getting caught in shrimp nets, loggerheads' numbers are steadily declining and are now protected in most areas of world.