Sea turtles need us!

Facts about sea turtles
Seven different species of sea (or marine) turtles grace our ocean waters, from the shallow seagrass beds of the Indian Ocean, to the colorful reefs of the Coral Triangle, and even the sandy beaches of the Eastern Pacific. WWF’s work on sea turtles focuses on five of those species: green, hawksbill, loggerhead, leatherback and olive ridley.

Human activities have tipped the scales against the survival of these ancient mariners. Nearly all species of sea turtle are classified as Endangered. Slaughtered for their eggs, meat, skin and shells, sea turtles suffer from poaching and over-exploitation. They also face habitat destruction and accidental capture in fishing gear. Climate change has an impact on turtle nesting sites. It alters sand temperatures, which then affects the sex of hatchlings.

Why they matter?
Sea turtles are a fundamental link in marine ecosystems. They help maintain the health of sea grass beds and coral reefs that benefit commercially valuable species such as shrimp, lobster and tuna. Sea turtles are the live representatives of a group of reptiles that have existed on Earth and traveled our seas for the last 100 million years. Turtles have major cultural significance and tourism value. 

What can you do?
I cannot afford to let our Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Green turtles suffer the same fate. It is not too late to help these majestic species. You have the power to save their lives; get together with friends and family to crowdfund and help WWF-Malaysia to:

• Monitor and patrol nesting beaches to minimise the sale and consumption of turtle eggs
• Conduct research to understand marine turtle habitats and biology, and enhance conservation efforts
• Continue WWF's efforts in calling for stronger and more holistic laws to protect turtles

You can be a part of the fight to save this national icon. Together, we can ensure that these ancient mariners are around for generations to come. Thank you so much.