Loggerhead Turtles: Caretta caretta
Loggerhead sea turtles are found worldwide in subtropical and tropical ocean waters. In the western Atlantic, they range from Nova Scotia to Argentina. Nesting occurs in the eastern United States on beaches from Virginia to Florida.
The loggerhead sea turtle gets its name from its exceptionally large head. This size accommodates large jaw muscles needed for crushing crustaceans and mollusks. Adult loggerheads generally weigh between 250 and 350 pounds, although they have been recorded at more than 500 pounds. The shell, or carapace, of an average adult is about three feet long. Loggerheads are the most common species of sea turtle found in Virginia waters.
As hatchlings, loggerheads live among sargassum seaweed mats in the open ocean, feeding on crustaceans and other small prey. As they mature, they will move closer to the shore and feed on crabs, sea jellies, mollusks and even some fish. They especially enjoy munching on horseshoe crabs.
Virginia Aquarium Loggerhead Turtles
The loggerhead sea turtles at the Aquarium live in the Light Tower Aquarium, which simulates the area surrounding the Chesapeake Bay Light Tower. They share their aquarium habitat with fish and two other sea turtle species, the Kemp's ridley and the green turtle.
The loggerheads are fed individually and their diet is supplemented with multivitamins.
Stranding Response Team - (757) 385-7575
All species of sea turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Many other animals prey upon sea turtles (particularly as hatchlings) but human activities remain their biggest threat. Historically, sea turtles were hunted for their meat, skin and shells or their nests were destroyed for eggs. The shell of the hawksbill, prized for its beauty, was the source of "tortoise shell" fashion accessories. While these practices are now illegal in the United States, they do continue in many parts of the world. Major threats to sea turtles include incidental by-catch in commercial fishing nets and loss of nesting habitats due to coastal development. Other dangers include boat strikes, pollution and marine debris.
To help further conservation efforts, keep beaches and waterways clean and clear of pollution by properly using and disposing of harmful chemicals such as fertilizers, paint and motor oil. When boating, be on the lookout for sea turtles resting at the surface and dispose of trash and fishing gear properly. Whenever possible, support legislation that protects sea turtle nesting beaches and their marine habitats.
If you find a stranded sea turtle, report it immediately to the Aquarium's Stranding Response Center (757) 385-7575 or your local marine animal rescue center. The Aquarium cannot accept freshwater turtles. Find a place for your turtle at www.turtlehomes.org.
Behind the Scene with Sea Turtles:
A Behind the Scenes Experience is a 45-minute behind the scenes look at the Aquarium sea turtle collection. Learn More.