Sea Turtles

Three species of sea turtles can be found in Oregon's coastal waters.

Sea turtles are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. NOAA Fisheries is responsible for conservation and recovery of sea turtles in the marine environment, while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is lead on conservation and recovery of sea turtles on nesting beaches.

Types of Sea Turtles

Loggerhead turtle

Loggerhead turtle

Named for their relatively large head, adult loggerhead turtles can weigh 250 pounds and be three feet in length. 

Photo from naturalhistoryman, Flickr

Green sea turtle

Green turtle

The largest of hard-shelled sea turtles, the green turtle weighs 300 to 350 pounds as an adult, and feeds primarily on sea grasses and algae. Strictly herbivores, green sea turtles are named for their greenish-colored fat.

Photo by Dave Budeau, ODFW

Leatherback turtle

Leatherback turtle

Proposed critical habitat for this endangered species includes Oregon waters. 

Photo by Alistair Rae, Flickr

Frog looking out

Visit the Recreation Report

Current bird and wildlife viewing opportunities. Updated weekly by wildlife biologists throughout the state.

Learn More