Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The Green turtle (named after its green coloured fat) is one of the largest turtle species and is the most abundant turtle species found in Sri Lanka. They are found in shallow waters of the southern, eastern and western coastal areas of Sri Lanka. They are herbivores who feed mainly on seagrass.
Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
The Olive Ridley turtles are classified as an Endangered Species. Commonly found nesting on beaches around Sri Lanka, particularly on the eastern and southern coasts. They are known for their olive-green colour and are comparatively smaller in size, measuring up to 2 feet in length. They are Omnivorous, and feed on crustaceans and fish
Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta)
The Loggerhead turtle (named for its large heads and strong jaws) is a rare species who can grow up to 3 feet in length and can weigh over 250 pounds. They are found along the southern and eastern coasts of Sri Lanka. They feed on hard-shelled prey like crabs and lobsters.
Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
The Hawksbill turtle is known for its beautiful shell and is found in the coral reefs and shallow waters of Sri Lanka. They feed on sponges and other small sea creatures. Hawksbill turtles can grow up to 3 feet in length.
Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The Leatherback turtle is the largest turtle species turtles can grow up to 7 feet in length and weigh over 2,000 pounds. They are found in the deeper waters off the coast of Sri Lanka. These turtles are rarely sighted and are considered endangered. They feed on jellyfish and other soft-bodied organisms.
| Species Name | Scientific Name | Habitat | Diet | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Turtle | Chelonia mydas | Southern, Eastern, and Western Coast Sri Lanka | Herbivorous, feeds on seagrass | Up to 5 feet in length |
| Olive Ridley Turtle | Lepidochelys olivacea | Eastern and Northern Coasts of Sri Lanka | Omnivorous, feeds on crustaceans and fish | Up to 2 feet in length |
| Loggerhead Table | Caretta caretta | Southern and Eastern coasts of Sri Lanka | Carnivorous, feeds on crabs and lobsters | Up to 3 feet in length |
| Hawksbill Turtle | Eretmochelys imbricata | Coral reefs and shallow waters of Sri Lanka | Omnivorous, feeds on sponges and small creatures | Up to 3 feet in length |
| Leatherback Turle | Dermochelys coriacea | Deeper waters off the coast of Sri Lanka | Carnivorous, feeds on jellyfish and soft-bodied organisms | Up to 7 feet in length |