Leatherback Turtle
Dermochelys coriacea
Description
RANGE & HABITAT
Reciprocal Relationships
These are an endangered species, but there are things we can do to help protect leatherback sea turtles. Reducing ocean trash and advocating for the protection of sea turtle habitat can significantly help this species. Many leatherback turtles can get stuck in plastic waste and pollution. If you happen to see one make sure you keep your distance and report the marine life to your nearest marine center, so that they can properly help this animal!
Many Indigenous oral histories share some version of the story in which the Great Spirit orders animals to dive into the ocean and bring up clay. The great spirit uses the clay from the bottom of the ocean and forms land on the shell of a turtle. Many First Nations refer to North America as Turtle Island. Turtles are a popular feature in Indigenous art.
MORE INFORMATION
If you belong to a First Nation with a story or piece of information not represented here and you would like to share more about this species, please email us at education@sierraclub.bc.ca.