Leatherback Sea Turtles
The Leatherback Sea Turtle is the largest species of sea turtle, reaching lengths of up to 7 feet and weighing as much as 2,000 pounds. Unlike other turtles, they lack a hard shell; instead, their bodies are covered with a leathery skin. These turtles are known for their deep-diving abilities, often plunging to depths of over 4,000 feet in search of jellyfish, their primary food source.
Leatherbacks are found in oceans around the world, from the tropics to the Arctic. They play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by helping control jellyfish populations. Unfortunately, they face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and entanglement in fishing gear.