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A Closer Look at the Loggerhead
The Loggerhead Sea Turtle, scientifically known as Caretta caretta, is one of the largest turtle species in the world, with adults reaching weights of up to 300 pounds or more. These sea turtles are named for their large heads, which support powerful jaws capable of crushing the hard shells of their prey.
How to Spot Loggerheads
Although they are Florida’s most commonly observed sea turtle, loggerheads are rare throughout most of their global range. A loggerhead's carapace (hard shell covering) is often covered with algae, large barnacles, and other varied animal tags. They are also identified by the five (5) scutes on the carapace.
Quick Facts about Loggerheads
Habitat: Loggerhead Sea Turtles are found in oceans around the world, with nesting sites primarily in the southeastern United States, the Mediterranean, and Japan. In fact, 90% of all Loggerheads in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico nest on Florida's beach.
Diet: Their diet consists mainly of crustaceans, mollusks, jellyfish, and fish.
Reproduction: Female Loggerheads return to the same beaches where they were born to lay their eggs, a nesting behavior known as natal homing.
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