Antigua & Barbuda's Sea Turtles
Sea turtles have roamed the oceans for over 100 million years, playing a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Globally, there are seven species of sea turtles: Leatherback, Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, Kemp's Ridle, and flatback turtle. While each species has unique characteristics and habitats, they all face similar threats, making conservation efforts crucial.
Antigua and Barbuda are fortunate to host three nesting species: Hawksbill, Green, and Leatherback turtles. These magnificent creatures choose our beaches as nesting grounds, continuing an ancient life cycle. Hawksbills are the most common nesters, often found on coral-fringed beaches. Green turtles favor sandy beaches with abundant seagrass nearby for feeding, while leatherbacks, the largest of all sea turtles, prefer the more secluded stretches of coastline to lay their eggs.
Although loggerhead and olive ridley turtles do not nest here, they are occasional visitors to our waters, passing through during their long migrations. These encounters are a reminder of the interconnectedness of ocean ecosystems and the importance of safeguarding sea turtle habitats beyond nesting beaches.
By protecting these species and their habitats, Antigua and Barbuda play an important role in global conservation efforts. Learning more about these ancient mariners is the first step in ensuring their survival for generations to come.
