Thursday, November 5, 2015

Thankful Thursday: Hawaiian Green Turtles Increase in Population



Have you heard the great news? The Hawaiian green turtle, the most common sea turtle in the waters around Hawaii, is on the endangered list. However, the turtles have increased in numbers over the last three decades.

The scientific name is Chelonia mydas, but you can call it by its Hawaiian name of Honu.



These large sea turtles have been known to live to age 70. They prefer tropical waters, including those of Hawaii, but can thrive in subtropical waters. 

How big do they get? Adults typically weigh up to 500 pounds. The shell, which ranges in color from olive brown to black, averages a length of 40 inches.  Hawaiian green turtles differ from other varieties. Two large prefrontal scales between the eyes is one way of identifying the turtle.

About nine of every ten nest in the islands of Northwestern Hawaii. They migrate to the coastal area of the main islands to feed. It’s been requested that you avoid feeding, touching or disturbing sea turtles while they soak up the sun or swim through the water. Take pictures and videos from a distance to share with friends and family.

Have you been to Hawaii? What is your favorite thing to do or see while there?
 

20 comments:

  1. I am so glad to hear that the turtle population has increased! One of my favorite things to see at the aquarium is the sea turtle. I would hate for such a wonderful animal to go extinct.

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  2. I've not been to Hawaii yet. I'd love to visit there and see the turtles.

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  3. This is great to hear. Hawaii is # 1 on my bucket list of places I want to visit. Catherine S

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  4. No, I have never been, but it's #2 on my bucket list. I would love to go there and hang out with the turtles.

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  5. OMG, that is so amazing! I love Green turtles, and I'm so happy to hear that their numbers are rising. They're one of my favorite aquatic animals.

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  6. This is awesome. I'm glad their conservation efforts are taking effect. I would love to see one of these turtles some day.

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  7. I have not been to Hawaii yet... but we are actually planning our anniversary trip for there. Hopeing it all works out to go as I would love to see the turtles.

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  8. I love Hawaii--got married in Maui and honeymooned in Kaui ten years ago. So sorry about the turtles. I loved the weather and how relaxed I felt in Hawaii.
    Estelle

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  9. I have never been to Hawaii Hope to get there someday. I've heard great things about Kaui.

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  10. That's awesome that the turtle numbers are increasing. You so rarely hear goood news related to endangered animals.

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  11. I haven't been to Hawaii yet, but I know now what I want to see when I finally make it there. They wouldn't have to worry about me touching a 500 lb turtle, I'll gladly keep a respectable distance.

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  12. It is great that their numbers are on the rise. They are so beautiful. I can not believe they live to 70.

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  13. Turtles are such a beautiful creature. They get so big 500 pounds is crazy.

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  14. I've never been but that is such exciting news!

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  15. I have never been to Hawaii but I've dreamed about it since I was so very young. This is pretty awesome - Jeanine

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  16. The sea turtles are so iconic when I think of Hawaii. I love knowing that they are increasing in numbers.

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  17. We were supposed to go last summer and I had to cancel. I think it would have been a fabulous trip.

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  18. very interesting. they are really beautiful creatures

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  19. This is awesome news! My son really loves sea creatures and loves turtles. I'd love to take him to Hawaii to see the turtles!
    ~Amanda

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