Many hatchlings swim offshore to line for several years in floating seaweed drifting along the edges of ocean currents. Eventually the young turtles take up residence in coastal waters. Many years pass before the few hatchlings that survive reach maturity. A sea turtle may live for 40 to 60 years or more. Few natural enemies but many man-made threats Sea turtles once roamed the oceans by the millions, but over the past few centuries the demand for sea turtle meat, eggs, shell, leather and oil has greatly reduced their number.
Populations continue to decline as habitat is lost and the trade in sea turtle products continues.
Every year, thousands of sea turtles drown in shrimp trawls and other fishing gear and others die from pollutants or from swallowing trash mistaken for food. Many hatchling sea turtles are disoriented by bright lights near beaches and wander away from the ocean to be crushed by cars or stranded. Concern for the plight of sea turtles is growing and people around the world are working to protect them on nesting beaches and at sea. How you can help Never approach turtles emerging from the sea or disturb or harass nesting turtles. Watch nesting turtles by joining one of the many state-permitted turtle walks conducted by experience guides.