Description

Loggerhead Sea Turtles are large pelagic turtles that can be observed in the Gulf of Mexico, and may be seen close to coastal Mississippi foraging or nesting. Sea turtles are endangered and should not be bothered, handled, or captured. Loggerheads can be very large, and are usually brown or reddish in color. 

Identifying Traits

• Brown or reddish in color
• 5 or more pleural scutes on each side of shell, first comes in contact with cervical scute

Habitat

Oceanic, may be encountered eating jellyfish during blooms, occasionally nests on natural beaches and barrier islands

Behavior

Pelagic, nests on beaches, forages on gelatinous prey and algae

Diet

Jellyfish, algae