Are sea turtles endangered? What threats do they face?
Today only seven species of sea turtle exist world-wide. All seven species are listed as “threatened” or “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act. Young sea turtles have many natural predators. Raccoons, dogs and ghost crabs raid nests and devour eggs. Hatchlings on the beach are easy targets for crabs and birds. Once in the ocean, sharks and large fish can easily consume a small hatchling. However, it is primarily interaction with humans that has caused the collapse of sea turtle populations. Humans can interfere with every stage of a sea turtle s life cycle. Beachfront development, beach nourishment projects, driving on beaches, and artificial lighting all impact sea turtle nesting behavior, and will sometimes prevent females from nesting at all. Boating, fishing, and dredging can harm or even kill swimming sea turtles. Sea turtles can drown when they become entangled in floating garbage, and they can ingest floating debris. Sea turtles and their eggs are harvested for food and
