What is the significance of turtles in hawaii

Use wildlife friendly lighting on the beach and near the shore. Bright white lights can disorient baby sea turtles from getting to the ocean after hatching. Do not drive on the beach where you could injure a sea turtle or damage a nest.

Sea turtle nests must remain undisturbed. Keep your pets on leash to minimize sea turtle injuries and death. Stay alert for fresh or bloody wounds, hooks, line, abnormal appearance, human or pet interactions, injured or dead turtles, nesting activity or baby hatchlings.

Did You Know? Green and hawksbill turtles evolved as species 40 to 50 million years ago. Both species are indigenous to the Hawaiian Islands. Green turtles are the most common in Hawaii. They are the only Hawaii turtles that basks on land to rest and regulate their temperature — basking can last up to 2 to 3 days. Also often found basking in the sun on popular beaches, the sea turtle is easily one of the most beautiful animals relatively easily found in their natural habitat.

Not only is this animal beautiful it is also an important part of Hawaiian culture. With lifespans similar to humans, sea turtles can frequently be found to live around 80 years. In Hawaii there are three native turtles with the most common being the green turtle also referred to as Honu.

The honu, or green sea turtle, has been an important Hawaiian symbol for as long as people have inhabited the Hawaiian islands. Today the fishing has nearly ceased, but baby turtles still face many dangers from the moment they are laid.

The babies must survive a multitude of predators and the effect of environmental hazards. If they make it to the sea, the dangers are still abundant: sharks, marine debris, disease, tainted algae, and propellers. After 25 years of basking on lava, floating along coastal tidepools, and munching on their diet of algae or Limu, the Honu reaches maturity at about pounds.