Donate | Adopt | Shop | Renew | Redeem | Search

About Us
Support Us
Track A Sea Turtle
Sea Turtle Information
Get Involved
Eco-Volunteer
Programs & Projects
Educator's Corner
Sea Turtle Gift Shop
Cool Sea Turtle Stuff
Barrier Island Center
Press Room
Sign-up to receive Free sea turtle updates
Email This Page to a Friend Printer Friendly Version of This Page
 Online Sea Turtle Species Identification Key
Trying to identify a species of sea turtle that you saw? Use the following key with diagrams to solve the mystery! Start with Number 1 and follow the links until you find the species.
1.

* Body consists of a very flexible carapace (upper part of shell) with 5 distinct dorsal ridges running the length of the animal.
* Flippers without claws
* Carapace is dark grey or black in color with white, pink or pale spots


Its a Leatherback Sea Turtle
OR

* Body has a bony carapace with no ridges. Large hard scutes (scales) present
* Flippers with one or more claws


Go to 2 -->


Sea Turtle Conservancy, 4424 NW 13th St, Suite B-11, Gainesville, FL 32609
Phone: 352-373-6441  |  Fax: 352-375-2449  |  1-800-678-7853  |  stc@conserveturtles.org