Sea Turtles Micro Documentary

Ancient and endearing, the turtle's origins can be traced back to over 216 million years ago, making them one of the oldest reptile families. The sea turtles branched off from this group around 110 million years ago, taking to the world's oceans. For millions of years, the sea turtle evolved and flourished until it came into direct contact with man. Imprecise fishing techniques, beach development, pollution and a large black market trade for turtle meat and eggs are all starting to take a toll on the world's sea turtle population. There are only seven species of sea turtle left on the planet, and all of these are on the endangered or critically endangered list. Six of the seven species can be found in Australian waters. The flatback, the leatherback, the olive ridley, the green turtle, the hawksbill and the loggerhead turtle. The loggerhead is named after its disproportionately large head, which contains big powerful jaws that it uses to crush its prey. They feed on a variety of marine life including crustaceans, fish and even jellyfish. They can grow to over one meter long and can weigh as much as 364 kilograms. They also hold the record for longest dive of any sea turtle, managing to stay submerged for an amazing seven hours. The loggerhead turtle is listed as endangered. The hawksbill turtle is smaller in size and weight, the heaviest recorded being 127 kilograms. It takes its name from the sharp hook-beaked jaw that it uses to feast on its favorite meal, sea sponges. The hawksbill is mainly found on reefs in the tropics. In 1996 it was recorded that hawksbill turtle populations had dropped by a massive 80 percent worldwide over three generations. The turtle became listed as critically endangered. It is now illegal to kill, capture, trade or harass hawksbill turtle. The green turtle gets its name from a green layer of fat that lies beneath its shell. It is one of the more curious of the sea turtles, often readily approaching divers for a closer inspection. They can grow to lengths of 1.5 meters and weigh up to 395 kilograms. Although newly emerged hatchlings are carnivorous, adult green turtles are predominantly herbivorous, feeding on plant life such as algae and seagrass. Here we can see green turtles at a turtle cleaning station on Flinders Reef, located off Moreton Island, Queensland. The reef forms a natural calm protective barrier, excellent for turtles to have a rest and get the all-important cleaning service from the small reef inhabitants. The green turtle is listed as endangered. After evolving and surviving for millions of years, sadly the sea turtle is on the verge of extinction. If they are to survive, it is going to need the help, protection and understanding of mankind.