Leatherback turtle

LEATHERBACK TURTLE
Dermochelys coriacea

Leatherback turtle in Guatemala (Francesca Barker) Five species of marine turtle have been recorded in British waters, although no species breed in this country. The leatherback turtle is the most frequently recorded species, and the species is regarded as native to our waters.

Leatherback turtles can grow to 2 metres in length and weigh up to 600kg. They are unique amongst turtles in having a leathery shell without any visible scutes. This species, in particular, follows the Gulf Stream in pursuit of jellyfish.

Climate change has resulted in a significant increase in the numbers of these animals seen in our waters. The main conservation issues facing turtles in British waters are accidental capture and drowning in fishing gear, and collisions with boats. In addition many ingest plastic bags, which can resemble jellyfish in appearance; these can block their gut and cause starvation.

Loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta, green turtles Chelonia mydas, hawksbill Eretmochelys imbricata and Kemp's Ridley Lepidochelys kempi are also more than likely visitors to our waters.

For more information about the Marine Turtles see EuroTurtle.

The United Kingdom Turtle Code >>>