Origin
Globally distributed across tropical and temperate oceans. Nesting beaches occur in the Caribbean, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Foraging ranges span from the Arctic Circle to southern Africa and New Zealand.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Reaching lengths of over 6 feet and weights above 1,000 pounds, the Leatherback’s smooth, rubbery shell is unlike any other sea turtle. It has a ridged back and mottled coloration, adapted for deep dives up to 1,200 meters. It is the only sea turtle without a hard carapace.

Purpose
Crucial to jellyfish population control. As apex gelatinovores, Leatherbacks maintain balance in pelagic food webs. Their long-distance migrations connect ocean basins, linking ecosystems from nesting coasts to high-seas feeding zones.

Importance
A flagship species for ocean conservation. Their health reflects the overall state of marine ecosystems. Understanding and protecting Leatherbacks helps safeguard hundreds of other oceanic species impacted by similar threats.

Included Resources
Cannot be kept in captivity. Conservation requires international collaboration, protected nesting beaches, clean coastal waters, and fisheries regulation. Educational institutions and NGOs often track them via satellite.

Best Use Cases
Best supported through advocacy, education, and ecosystem restoration programs. Ideal for public aquariums with marine conservation exhibits or VR experiences—not live display.

Conservation Context
Classified as Vulnerable globally, but regional populations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans are Critically Endangered. Their eggs are poached, hatchlings disoriented by lights, and adults often drown in gillnets or choke on plastic bags mistaken for jellyfish. Climate change skews sex ratios and erodes nesting beaches.

Ideal Conservation Allies
• Marine conservation NGOs
• Coastal communities
• Educational and research institutions
• Turtle excluder device (TED) developers
• Wildlife filmmakers and policy advocates

Region (A)
• Latitude: 10.8333° N
• Longitude: -61.5167° W
(Trinidad & Tobago — one of the most important nesting sites)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 36.7783° N
• Longitude: -122.4194° W
(California coast — migratory foraging zone in Pacific gyres)