Loggerheads

Loggerheads, or loggerhead sea turtles, are large marine turtles that belong to the species Caretta caretta. They are named for their relatively large heads and powerful jaws, which aid in feeding on hard-shelled prey.

Adults have a broad, reddish-brown to olive carapace and a large head with strong jaws. They occur in warm temperate and tropical waters worldwide, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, with nesting beaches on tropical and subtropical coastlines.

Diet consists mainly of invertebrates such as crustaceans and mollusks, including whelks and conchs, as well as jellyfish and occasional fish. Their strong jaws enable them to crush hard shells.

Reproduction and life cycle: Nesting is undertaken by females on sandy beaches, returning to suitable beaches every two to four years. A typical clutch contains around 100 eggs, and a female may lay several clutches per season. Incubation lasts about 60 days.

Development is temperature dependent, with warmer nests producing more females. Hatchlings emerge at night and orient toward the sea, facing threats from predators and artificial light.

Conservation: The loggerhead is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Major threats include bycatch in fisheries, coastal development, habitat loss, plastic pollution, and climate change. Conservation measures include protection of nesting beaches, bycatch reduction devices in fisheries, and international and regional protection programs.