Green Sea Turtles Make a Comeback But the Journey's Not Over

The green sea turtle is no longer considered endangered! Thanks to decades of conservation work, their population has grown 28 percent! This victory is a reminder that conservation works but also that our efforts must continue to protect all sea turtle species.

A Conservation Milestone

The International Union for Conservation of Nature, or IUCN, maintains the Red List of Threatened Species. This global inventory tracks the risk of extinction for animals, plants, and fungi. Recently, the IUCN updated the green sea turtle's status to reflect a significant population recovery. A 28 percent growth is a huge success story and shows that dedicated conservation actions can have real impact. Protecting nesting beaches, reducing bycatch, and carefully managing coastal development have all contributed to this positive change.

Sea Turtle Diversity and Ongoing Threats

It is important to remember that there are seven species of sea turtles, and not all are doing as well. Here is a snapshot of their current status:

• Green Sea turtle: improved, no longer endangered

• Loggerhead: vulnerable

• Olive Ridley: vulnerable

• Leatherback: vulnerable

• Hawksbill and Kemp’s Ridley: critically endangered

• Flatback: not enough data to assess

This means that while the green sea turtle's recovery is reason to celebrate, other species still face serious threats from climate change, pollution, bycatch, and habitat loss.

Why Conservation Must Continue

A species moving off the endangered list does not mean it is out of danger. Populations can decline if protection efforts stop. Continued conservation is essential for the green sea turtle and critical for the species still at high risk. By supporting organizations that protect sea turtles, spreading awareness, and advocating for responsible coastal and ocean policies, we can help ensure these animals thrive for generations to come.

The green sea turtle’s comeback is a triumph for conservation and a reminder of what is possible. At the same time, it is a call to action. There is still much work to do to protect all sea turtle species and the oceans they call home. This is a win, not the finish line.

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Resources and Further Reading

• IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

• NOAA Fisheries – Sea Turtle Conservation

• Sea Turtle Conservancy

• World Wildlife Fund – Sea Turtles

• Marine Conservation Institute