The Great Barrier Reef is home to an abundance of marine life. From fish and sharks to sea turtles.
There are many colourful fish and various wildlife species that live in the Great Barrier Reef. But among the marine life are a graceful, ancient species…the turtle is one of the most majestic creatures! Six out of seven of these marine turtles can be found here, with the Green Turtle being the most common.
They have existed in the ocean here for some 1000 years, and their connection with the reef is vital to the health of the ocean.
Keeping the reef healthy
That’s because they eat the seagrass. This keeps it cut and healthy, which allows a healthy habitat for other marine species too. This allows the corals space to grow.
November to March is the nesting season. This is when the females will plod along the beaches where they were first born. Often, they will go back to the beaches they hatched on years and years before. They then lay their eggs on the beach. Under the guidance of rangers, the turtles emerge from the sand after around 2 months. Their tiny babies scramble around on the beach and make it towards the sea in the dead of night. This is so they can avoid daytime predators.
Threats
Of course, these little turtles do face the occasional threat! From plastics in the ocean, boats and loss of habitats. Luckily, there are turtle conservation projects that seek to protect these cute creatures. Nesting beaches are protected, and there are turtle hospitals dotted around Australia.
Swim with turtles!
While you’re visiting the Great Barrier Reef, you should swim with turtles! You might even see them when you’re snorkelling.
It is truly the best way to see turtles in their natural habitat. Watch as they glide majestically across the ocean. Never been snorkelling? Join our tour!