The leatherback turtle is the largest and most ancient species of turtle in the world, but it is also one of the most endangered. These massive reptiles, which can grow up to seven feet long and weigh over 2,000 pounds, are facing a number of threats that are pushing them toward extinction¹.

One of the biggest threats to leatherback turtles is habitat loss. These turtles rely on specific beaches for nesting and reproduction, and the destruction of these habitats can have a serious impact on their survival. Coastal development, beachfront lighting, and other human activities can all disrupt the nesting process and make it difficult for leatherback turtles to find suitable breeding grounds².

Another major threat to leatherback turtles is pollution. These turtles often feed on jellyfish, which can be found in large concentrations near areas of human activity. As a result, leatherback turtles are often exposed to pollution and other contaminants that can have negative impacts on their health³. Oil spills, plastic pollution, and other forms of marine debris can also pose a threat to leatherback turtles, as they can get tangled up in debris or ingest harmful substances⁴.

Climate change is also a major threat to leatherback turtles. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events can all have negative impacts on these turtles and their habitats. As the climate continues to change, it is likely that these impacts will become more severe, making it even more difficult for leatherback turtles to survive⁵.

Finally, leatherback turtles are also at risk due to overfishing and the illegal trade in turtle products. Many species of fish and invertebrates that leatherback turtles rely on for food are being overfished, making it difficult for these turtles to find sufficient nourishment⁶. Additionally, there is a thriving illegal trade in turtle products, such as shells and eggs, which can also have a serious impact on leatherback turtle populations⁷.

These reptiles are facing a number of threats that are pushing them toward extinction, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and overfishing, but there are steps that anyone can take to help save these incredible creatures from extinction.

Take the Pledge to Save Leatherback Turtles and make a difference in the fight to save these amazing animals from extinction!

More on this issue:

1. World Wildlife Fund (2023), "Leatherback Turtle."
2. American Museum of Natural History, "Endangered: Leatherback Sea Turtle."
3. Sea Turtle Conservancy (2022), "Information About Sea Turtles: Threats from Marine Pollution."
4. Dalhousie University (16 March 2009), "Leatherback Turtle Threatened By Plastic Garbage In Ocean."
5. The Leatherback Trust (2023), "Climate change."
6. Sea Turtle Conservancy (2022), "Information About Sea Turtles: Threats from Illegal Shell Trade."
7. The Conversation (22 October 2017), "The illegal turtle trade: Why I keep secrets."