Wildlife

Leatherback Sea Turtle Nesting Welfare

Leatherback sea turtles are the largest reptiles on Earth and among the most endangered, with nesting beaches threatened by development and artificial lighting.

Key Facts

Leatherbacks can weigh up to 900 kilograms and dive to 1,200 meters depth
They are listed as Vulnerable globally and Critically Endangered in the Pacific
Artificial lighting on nesting beaches disorients hatchlings away from the ocean
Females return to the beach where they hatched to nest, sometimes traveling 6,000 miles
Plastic bags are deadly to leatherbacks who mistake them for jellyfish

Welfare Considerations

Leatherback hatchlings disoriented by beach lighting exhaust themselves and die before reaching the ocean. Adult females disturbed during nesting may abandon egg laying, wasting reproductive effort. Climate change is shifting sand temperatures affecting hatchling sex ratios. Protecting dark, undisturbed nesting beaches is a critical welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Turn off or shield beach lighting during sea turtle nesting season
Never disturb nesting sea turtles or their eggs
Support sea turtle monitoring and nesting beach protection programs
Eliminate single-use plastic bags from your life
Donate to leatherback sea turtle conservation organizations