Sea Turtles

        Sea turtles are among the oldest creatures on earth and have remain unchanged for 110 million years. Unfortunately, the number of turtles in Malaysia have decreased over the years, until the local government declared these turtles extinct.

     There are seven turtle species in the world and four of these have made the east coast shores of Malaysia as their landing spot. They are the Leatherback, Greenback, Hawksbill and Olive Ridley, with the Greenback most common these days. 
     
 

     The Leatherback turtle is the largest of all turtles in the world. It can reach to a length of 2m and can weight up to 500kg. This turtle can be recognized by its distinctive carapace marked by seven longitudinal ridges on its back, resembling a starfruit. Each turtle can lay between 60-120 eggs. In Malaysia, Leatherback turtles are only found in the states of Terengganu. 





     Meanwhile, the Olive Ridley turtle is the smallest turtle among all turtles. It has an average size of 15-65 cm in length and weights around 30kg. Its body has a dark coloration like the olive fruit. The nesting seasons is between March- June. Each turtle can lay up to around 100 eggs per nesting. This species can be found in the states of Terengganu and Pahang.

     
      As a Malaysian we should be very proud because we have one of the unique animal which is sea turtle in our motherland. So, we have a very high responsibility to prevent and conserve sea turtles and their eggs.