Leatherback Sea Turtle
(Dermochelys coriacea)

The leatherback is the largest sea turtle. Individuals have attained a shell length of 1.85 meters (6 feet) and weights of 637 kilograms (1,400 pounds). Unlike other species of sea turtle, the leatherback does not have scales. Instead, it is covered with firm, rubbery skin with several longitudinal ridges or keels.

Leatherback sea turtles are a highly migratory species that nests in the tropics and ranges as far north as Canada and the northern Pacific ocean. The leatherback sea turtle feeds primarily on jellyfish.

The species faces significant threats from incidental take in commercial fisheries and marine pollution, as well as from the harvest of eggs and flesh.

ESA Status: Endangered

To report a sea turtle sighting, stranding or death please call our hotline: 1-800-628-9944

Green Sea Turtle | Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle | Leatherback Sea Turtle
Loggerhead Sea Turtle | Olive Ridley Sea Turtle