Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 9
SPECIAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SPECIES
The leatherback is globally endangered and recent population modeling suggests that at the current rate of decline, this species may be extinct in as little as 18 years (Spotila et al., 1996). In the past decade, several nesting populations have experienced severe declines (e.g., Mexico, Sarti et al., 1996), and the Pacific population is facing imminent extinction (Spotila et al., 2000). Nesting populations in the Atlantic appear to be more stable, but trends cannot be derived with any degree of confidence because pertinent demographic data are lacking. For example, age at maturity and reproductive life span are not known, and the habitat of juveniles has not been identified.
Leatherbacks undertake long distance migrations that take them through the waters, and fishing zones, of many nations. Thus, conservation of this species is particularly challenging and clearly must involve international collaboration and cooperation.
The leatherback is one of only two species of marine turtle regularly encountered in Canadian waters (the other is Caretta caretta). Apart from commercial fishers, few Canadians have opportunities to encounter leatherbacks in their marine environment. Therefore, public awareness of this turtle outside fishing communities in Atlantic Canada is poor. It is important to recognize that although fishers and other residents of coastal communities may be familiar with the leatherback, they are generally not aware that this species is endangered and rapidly declining. Until recently, very few people recognized the importance of reporting sightings of these turtles (James, 2000).
Page details
- Date modified: