Quick answer
Leatherback Sea Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are listed in our guides as Vulnerable. That IUCN-style label describes global extinction risk and can differ from national lists — habitat loss and human pressure still decide local survival.
Key takeaway
Leatherback Sea Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are listed in our guides as Vulnerable. That IUCN-style label describes global extinction risk and can differ from national lists — habitat loss and human pressure still decide local survival.
Leatherback Sea Turtle conservation status
Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) is recorded here as Vulnerable. Global categories summarise extinction risk; regional populations can be safer or worse than the headline label.
Threats facing leatherback sea turtles
Habitat loss around Oceans worldwide from tropics to Arctic edges, hunting or persecution, climate pressure, and conflict with people are common drivers. Exact ranking of threats varies by region.
Outlook for Leatherback Sea Turtle populations
Where monitoring exists, trends track protected-area quality and enforcement. Fragmented groups need corridors and genetic exchange to avoid local extinction.
What actually helps
Support verified conservation programmes, cut demand for illegal wildlife products, and protect habitat. Tourism helps only when operators follow ethical wildlife standards.
Physical traits and behaviour
Leatherback Sea Turtles typically reach about 1.8 m in length and 400 kg in weight, with top speeds near 35 km/h. The giant jellyfish specialist. Daily activity, social structure, and seasonal movements reflect pressures in their native environment.
Diet and ecological role
Leatherback Sea Turtles feed on carnivore — jellyfish and salps almost exclusively. Foraging shifts with season and local abundance. As reptiles, they influence food webs — controlling prey, dispersing seeds, or shaping habitat through feeding and movement.
Sources
Leatherback Sea Turtle FAQs
Are leatherback sea turtles endangered?
Leatherback Sea Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are listed in our guides as Vulnerable. That IUCN-style label describes global extinction risk and can differ from national lists — habitat loss and human pressure still decide local survival.
What is the scientific name of the leatherback sea turtle?
Dermochelys coriacea — used in research and conservation listings for leatherback sea turtles.
What do leatherback sea turtles eat?
Leatherback Sea Turtles eat jellyfish and salps almost exclusively, with seasonal and regional variation in Oceans worldwide from tropics to Arctic edges.
Where do leatherback sea turtles live?
They are associated with Oceans worldwide from tropics to Arctic edges. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of leatherback sea turtles?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.