What Divers Should Know About Loggerhead Turtle

A truly global resident of our oceans, the Loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) is a species divers encounter across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, including the Mediterranean Sea. These robust marine reptiles are easily recognized by their distinctively large head, which gives them their common name. Adults typically measure around 90 cm (35 in) in carapace length, with some impressive individuals reaching up to 200 kg (440 lb), though 135 kg (298 lb) is a more common average weight. Their shell is usually a striking reddish-brown, complementing skin tones that range from yellow to brown.

Divers will most often spot Loggerheads traversing saltwater and estuarine environments, particularly in areas offering plenty of bottom-dwelling invertebrates. These turtles are omnivores, frequently observed methodically working the seabed with their large, powerful jaws, an effective tool for dismantling their prey. With a lifespan ranging from 47 to 67 years, a glimpse of one of these majestic creatures is a wonderful reminder of the longevity and resilience of marine life.