Sea turtles are fascinating creatures that have been around for over 200 million years, making them true "living fossils."

One of the most remarkable things about these ancient animals is their impressive lifespan – some sea turtles can live for up to 152 years, a record that earns them the title of the longest-living animals in the animal kingdom!

Just like how people associate longevity with pine trees and cranes in the mainland, coastal communities also view turtles as symbols of long life and refer to them as “the eternal turtle.” Let's dive deeper into some of the surprising secrets of sea turtles!

1. Do Sea Turtles Look Like Bomb Bread?

You might be surprised to learn that one type of sea turtle, the leatherback turtle, has a shape that resembles a bomb bread. Leatherbacks are the largest species of sea turtles, and their unique shape has earned them nicknames such as "starfruit turtle" and "big leatherback." Their carapace (shell) is characterized by seven prominent ridges, giving them a very distinct appearance.

These turtles can grow up to 3 meters in length, which is about the size of a floor-to-ceiling height! Not only are they massive, but they are also excellent divers, capable of diving as deep as 1,000 meters in the ocean. They primarily feed on jellyfish, consuming enormous amounts of these creatures during their underwater adventures.

2. The Toxicity of Turtles

As impressive as they are, sea turtles can also pose some dangers. For instance, the hawksbill turtle typically eats sponges and cnidarians, some of which can be toxic. As a result, hawksbill turtles may sometimes have poisonous meat, so it's essential to be cautious when consuming them. It's a reminder that even the most beautiful creatures in the ocean can carry some risks.

3. Spotting a Hawksbill Turtle

So, how can you tell if you've encountered a hawksbill turtle in the ocean? Hawksbills have sharp, beak-like upper jaws that resemble an eagle's beak, which is why they are often called "eagle-beak turtles." Additionally, their shells feature a jagged edge, almost like a saw, and their carapace has a layered, tile-like appearance. If you spot these features, it's very likely you've come across a hawksbill turtle!

4. A Solitary Life

Unlike some other animals that prefer socializing, sea turtles generally live solitary lives. Aside from mating and nesting seasons, sea turtles don't gather in groups or travel together. They don't have the iconic image of a large sea turtle carrying a smaller one along ocean currents, like you might imagine. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that sea turtles can actually make quite a loud noise – something people rarely associate with these gentle creatures.

5. Turtle Roars: The "Turtle Call" Mystery

In the northeastern part of Taiwan, there's a fishing harbor called "Turtle Roar". The name comes from an interesting phenomenon – people used to hear a loud "roaring" sound coming from a nearby stone cave where sea turtles were known to lay their eggs. Over time, this cave became known as the “Turtle Hole.”

6. The Challenge of Mating

In the vast ocean, male sea turtles often have to go on quite the adventure to find a mate. When a male turtle finds a female, he uses his front flippers and tail to connect with her, fulfilling his role in reproduction. However, getting to this point is no easy feat. Sometimes, the male turtle is not the only one vying for the female's attention.

It's not unusual for one male to be followed by two or three others, all trying to "piggyback" onto the same female. This interesting form of courtship shows the turtle's dedication to mating and adds a touch of mystery to their behavior.

7. The Ocean's Great Journey

Sea turtles are known for their incredible long-distance travels. Some species of sea turtles can travel thousands of miles across the ocean to find nesting grounds. This impressive migratory behavior is a testament to the resilience and navigational skills of these ancient creatures.

Despite the many challenges they face, including predators and human threats, sea turtles continue to journey through the oceans, carrying with them the secrets of the deep.

Sea turtles are not just fascinating because of their ancient lineage or impressive lifespan. They also hold a wealth of mystery and unique characteristics that make them some of the most intriguing creatures on Earth. Whether it's their massive size, the roar they produce during nesting, or their solitary lifestyle, sea turtles are full of surprises.

Lykkers, have you ever encountered a sea turtle in the wild? Or perhaps you've seen them at a marine park? Share your experiences with us! If you're as fascinated by sea turtles as we are, consider exploring more about them at places like Changsha's Underwater World – there's always something new to discover about these incredible creatures!

Top 10 Sea Turtle Facts | Animal Fun Facts | WWF

Video by WWF UK