Turtles Life Cycle

Sea Turtle Life Cycle

A turtle’s life cycle begins as the mother turtle lays her eggs. Sea turtles lay their eggs on a nesting beach.

Tortoises and other types of turtles lay their eggs in a similar way at a site the mother chooses.

One a baby turtle hatches from its egg it makes its way to the water. Once in the water the baby turtle faces many dangers.

Those who survive the many dangers of predatory birds and fish then make their way into the sea. Turtle’s are themselves predators. Read our article what do turtles eat to find out more about a turtle’s diet.

Sea Turtle Life Cycle

Sea Turtle Life Cycle – From Baby To Juvenile Turtle

The baby turtles who survive to become juveniles will disappear into the ocean for about 10 years. Nobody knows exactly where they go and what they do.

As a juvenile turtle, there is much foraging to be done. Juvenile turtles spend lots of time actively searching out food and exploring large expanses.

 

Turtle Life Cycle – Adulthood

When a turtle is ready (usually between 10 – 50 years old) it will migrate to a breeding area. There the turtle will find a mate.

Female turtles will then come ashore to lay their eggs in a suitable area. Most often, a female turtle will come to the exact same beach where they themselves were born. Nobody knows how they remember to find their way back.

Turtle Life Cycle – Life Span & Predators

Turtles are thought to live around 100 years in the wild ocean. The biggest threat they face is humans. Since larger turtles have large, tough shells they are not an altogether easy target for most animal predators.

Most animals which prey on turtles are land-dwellers. These include foxes, dogs, birds, raccoons, crabs and lizards. Although turtles also have to be careful of sharks and killer whales as they will also make an easy meal out of them.

We hope we’ve covered everything to do with a turtle life cycle and more in this article.

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