The leatherback turtle is the largest and most ancient species of turtle in the world, but it is also one of the most endangered, the World Wildlife Fund reports. These massive reptiles, which can grow up to seven feet long and weigh over 2,000 pounds, are facing a number of threats that are pushing them toward extinction.

According to the American Museum of Natural History, one of the biggest threats to leatherback turtles is habitat loss. These turtles rely on specific beaches for nesting and reproduction, and the destruction of these habitats can have a serious impact on their survival. Coastal development, beachfront lighting, and other human activities can all disrupt the nesting process and make it difficult for leatherback turtles to find suitable breeding grounds.

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The Leatherback turtle is facing a crisis. Learn how you can help.

Another major threat to leatherback turtles is pollution, reports the Sea Turtle Conservancy. These turtles often feed on jellyfish, which can be found in large concentrations near areas of human activity. As a result, leatherback turtles are often exposed to pollution and other contaminants that can have negative impacts on their health. According to Science Daily, Oil spills, plastic pollution, and other forms of marine debris can also pose a threat to leatherback turtles, as they can get tangled up in debris or ingest harmful substances.

Climate change is also a major threat to leatherback turtles. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events can all have negative impacts on these turtles and their habitats, The Leatherback Trust reports. As the climate continues to change, it is likely that these impacts will become more severe, making it even more difficult for leatherback turtles to survive.

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These endangered turtles need our help to survive.

Finally, leatherback turtles are also at risk due to overfishing and the illegal trade in turtle products. Many species of fish and invertebrates that leatherback turtles rely on for food are being overfished, making it difficult for these turtles to find sufficient nourishment reports the Sea Turtle Conservancy.
Additionally, there is a thriving illegal trade in turtle products, such as shells and eggs, which can also have a serious impact on leatherback turtle populations, The Conversation reports.

These reptiles are facing a number of threats that are pushing them toward extinction, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and overfishing, but there are steps that anyone can take to help save these incredible creatures from extinction.

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Habitat destruction and plastic pollution are major threats to Leatherback turtles.

5. Reduce your carbon footprint

Climate change is a major threat to leatherback turtles, as rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events can all have negative impacts on these turtles and their habitats. By reducing your carbon footprint, you can help to combat climate change and protect these animals.

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Every action counts in the fight to save the Leatherback turtle.

4. Reduce your plastic use

Plastic pollution is a serious threat to leatherback turtles, as they can get tangled up in debris or ingest harmful substances. By reducing your plastic use, you can help to protect these turtles and other marine life.

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Reduce your plastic consumption and support conservation efforts to help Leatherbacks.

3. Support sustainable seafood practices

Many species of fish and invertebrates that leatherback turtles rely on for food are being overfished, making it difficult for these turtles to find sufficient nourishment. By supporting sustainable seafood practices, you can help to ensure that these turtles have a steady food supply.

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Learn more about the plight of the Leatherback turtle and how you can make a difference.

2. Don't support the illegal trade in turtle products

There is a thriving illegal trade in turtle products, such as shells and eggs, which can have a serious impact on leatherback turtle populations. By refusing to support this trade, you can help to protect these animals.

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From supporting conservation efforts to reducing plastic use, there are many ways you can help Leatherback turtles.

1. Support organizations that help

Support organizations that are working to protect leatherback turtles, like Greater Good Charities and Project Peril. Project Peril is working to support community-based programs that effectively address threats to coastal habitats. These include removing beachfront lighting, physical barriers to nesting beaches, and vehicle traffic that crushes nests and incubating embryos. These programs also work toward reforestation, dune stabilization and beach clean-ups. Another key goal is the reduction of poaching and predation. Supporting these organizations through donations or volunteering can help to ensure that these turtles have a fighting chance at survival.

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The Leatherback turtle is in trouble. Find out how you can help.

Overall, there are many steps that anyone can take to help save the leatherback turtle from extinction. By reducing your carbon footprint and plastic use, supporting sustainable seafood practices, refusing to support the illegal trade in turtle products, and supporting organizations that are working to protect these turtles you can make a difference in the fight to save these amazing animals.

Take the Pledge to help Leatherback Turtles!