Everyone loves an encounter with a turtle! When snorkeling in Nusa Penida we frequently see both green sea turtles as well as hawksbill turtles. In Nusa Penida, the green sea turtle is often seen resting on the reef – or chowing down on it !
Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, located southeast of Bali, are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity, and one of the most beloved and iconic inhabitants of these waters is the sea turtle. These islands are home to two main species of sea turtles: the Green Sea Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle. Here’s some information about these remarkable creatures:
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas):
- Appearance: Green Sea Turtles are named for the color of their fat, not their shells, which can vary in shades of brown and olive. They have a streamlined body, a relatively small head, and powerful flippers.
- Size: They are one of the larger sea turtle species, with adults typically reaching lengths of 3 to 4 feet and weighing up to 300 kilograms (660 pounds).
- Habitat: Green Sea Turtles are herbivores and are often found grazing on seagrass beds, which are abundant in the waters around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
- Conservation Status: These turtles are listed as endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and poaching. Efforts are being made to protect their nesting sites and habitats.
Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata):
- Appearance: Hawksbill Turtles are known for their distinctive, overlapping scales on their shells, which have a beautiful tortoiseshell pattern. Their narrow head tapers to a sharp point.
- Size: Hawksbill Turtles are smaller than Green Sea Turtles, typically measuring 2 to 3 feet in length and weighing up to 80 kilograms (176 pounds).
- Habitat: Hawksbill Turtles are omnivorous and feed on sponges, anemones, and other invertebrates found on coral reefs. They are often spotted near coral formations in the waters around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
- Conservation Status: Like the Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Turtles are critically endangered due to habitat destruction and the illegal trade in their stunning shells.
Both of these sea turtle species play crucial roles in maintaining the health of the coral reef ecosystems around Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. They help control sponge and algae populations, which, if left unchecked, could smother coral reefs.
Seeing these graceful creatures in their natural habitat while snorkeling or diving in the waters of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan is a magical experience. It’s essential to practice responsible tourism and conservation efforts to protect these incredible sea turtles and ensure their survival for generations to come.