Hawaii Green Sea Turtles: Fascinating Science and Nature for Young Readers

Hawaii is home to a variety of marine life, including the majestic green sea turtle. These gentle giants are an important part of the marine ecosystem and a joy to behold. In this article, we will take a closer look at the science and nature of Hawaii's green sea turtles, making them perfect for young readers eager to learn more about these fascinating creatures.

What are Green Sea Turtles?

Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) are a species of sea turtle found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are the largest species of hard-shelled sea turtle and can weigh up to 350 pounds. Green sea turtles are named for the greenish color of their shells, which is caused by the algae that grows on them.

Hawaii's Green Sea Turtles (Science and Nature for Young Readers)

by Monika Mira

4.6 out of 5

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Green sea turtles are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of seagrass and algae. They are also known to eat jellyfish, crabs, and other small marine animals.

Where are Green Sea Turtles Found in Hawaii?

Green sea turtles can be found in all of the Hawaiian Islands, but they are most commonly found in the waters around the Big Island of Hawaii and Maui.

Green sea turtles typically inhabit shallow waters near coral reefs and seagrass beds. They can also be found in deeper waters, but they prefer to stay close to the surface where they can bask in the sun.

Nesting

Green sea turtles are known for their long migrations. They travel thousands of miles between their feeding grounds and nesting sites. Female green sea turtles return to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs.

In Hawaii, green sea turtles nest on sandy beaches throughout the year. The nesting season peaks in the summer months.

Female green sea turtles lay an average of 100 eggs per nest. The eggs incubate for about 50 days before hatching. When the baby green sea turtles hatch, they crawl to the ocean and begin their long journey to adulthood.

Conservation

Green sea turtles are an endangered species. They are threatened by a variety of factors, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

There are a number of organizations working to protect green sea turtles in Hawaii. These organizations work to educate the public about the importance of green sea turtles, and they also work to protect nesting sites and hatchlings.

Green sea turtles are an amazing and important part of the marine ecosystem. They are a joy to behold and a reminder of the beauty of the natural world. By learning more about green sea turtles, we can help to protect these gentle giants for future generations.

Additional Resources

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Green Sea Turtle
• NOAA Fisheries: Green Sea Turtle
• Sea Turtle Conservancy: Green Sea Turtle

Hawaii's Green Sea Turtles (Science and Nature for Young Readers)

by Monika Mira

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1723 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	40 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE