Sea Turtle Threats
Worldwide, six of the seven sea turtle species are classified as threatened or endangered due to human actions and lifestyles.
The biggest threats include:
- Entanglement in fishing gear
- Poaching and illegal trade of eggs, meat, and shells
- Coastal development
- Plastic and other marine debris
- Global warming
- Ocean pollution
Global Status
The world's seven sea turtle species are classified as follows according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species:
Hawksbills: Critically Endangered
Kemp's Ridleys: Critically Endangered
IUCN Definitions:
Critically Endangered: Species is considered to be facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.
Endangered: Species is considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
Vulnerable: Species is considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild.
Data Deficient: Species that cannot be evaluated because of insufficient information.
What is SEE Turtles?
We're a non-profit organization that protects sea turtles through conservation travel and volunteer tours, educational programs, and Billion Baby Turtles.