Although they are not the only ones in the Caribbean Sea, turtles are without a doubt one of its emblematic species. Recognizable by their occipital bone that forms a carapace on their back, these reptiles have been revered as a symbol of fertility and luck throughout history. In Martinique, they were hunted for their meat but are now strictly protected.
Sea turtles are wild animals that are very sensitive to their environment. When observing them, it is important to respect distances in order not to disturb them. They are always threatened by the loss, the degradation and the disturbance of their habitat, nesting place or feeding ground.
In the French West Indies, sea turtles can be observed at sea or on land on many beaches.
Of the five species present in the Caribbean, three are regularly observed in Martinique.
The leatherback turtle, recognizable by its leathery carapace which can reach 500 kg. It feeds mainly on jellyfish.
The “karet” or hawksbill turtle, recognizable by its hawksbill scales and its pointed beak. It is mainly seen in coral reefs where it feeds on sponges.
The green turtle, with a rounded beak and juxtaposed scales. It feeds in the grass beds.
Turtles can be found at any time of the year, but they do not come to lay eggs every month.
For example, leatherback turtles nest from March to July, green turtles in May or June and loggerheads (rarer) between September and October.
Female turtles travel thousands of kilometers to reach their nesting site and then return to the place where they were born.