Did you know there are only 7 species of sea turtles in the world, while there are around 300 aquatic turtles and 70 land turtles ?

Each with their own particularities, 5 species of sea turtles are present in French Polynesia. Exposed to numerous threats (pollution, fishing, poaching, etc.), sea turtle populations around the world are in sharp decline, according to data from the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The green turtle (ENDANGERED) – Named after the green color of the fat contained in its flesh, this species is the most widespread in French Polynesia. Easily observed in the lagoons, female green turtles come every year during nesting season to lay their eggs on the beaches of our islands.

The hawksbill turtle (CRITICALLY ENDANGERED) – This species owes its name to the shape of its beak, resembling a hawk. With scales overlapping like roof tiles, hawksbill turtles are present in French Polynesia and are easily identifiable by its beak shape.

The loggerhead turtle (VULNERABLE) – Rarely observed but present in French Polynesia, the loggerhead turtle populates the tropical, sub-tropical and temperate areas of the planet. It is found in the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Oceans as well as the Mediterranean Sea.

The olive ridley turtle (VULNERABLE) – The green color of its shell gave it its name. Although it is present in French Polynesia, it is rare to observe it. Small in size, it is known for its mass landings of females on the beaches of the Pacific Ocean of Central and South America.

The leatherback turtle (VULNERABLE) – The leatherback turtle is the largest of the 7 species of sea turtles. Present in French Polynesia in the Tuamotus in particular, it has only rarely been observed. The leatherback turtle does not have a bony shell: its back is made up of a thin skin covering a thick layer of fat giving it the appearance of leather.

The Kemp’s ridley turtle (CRITICALLY ENDANGERED) – The rarest and most endangered turtle, the vast majority of individuals come to nest on a single beach in Eastern Mexico. Small in size, it is highly threatened with extinction.

The flat-back turtle (unclassified) – Found only in the coastal waters of Australia, the flat-back turtle takes its name from its flattened shell. Data on this species are limited.

Since the creation of the association in 2004, Te mana o te moana has welcomed 583 green turtles, 69 hawksbill turtles, 1 loggerhead turtle and 5 oive ridley turtles.