Around the World in 52 weeks: A "Turtlelly" Cute Project (groan)

The Green Sea Turtles of the Caymans

When Columbus discovered the Cayman Islands they were so crowded with turtles that he named then "Las Tortugas". Over the years, overfishing and the population growth of the islands have taken a toll on the turtles and they are not nearly as abundant as they were. Odds are still very good of seeing one while diving in the waters, but if you want a guaranteed experience with turtles, there is only one place to go, The Cayman Island Turtle Farm. Here you can pet turtles, see the only known trained Sea Turtle, Mertle, and see many other animals of the Caribbean in a very natural environment. The most common turtle in the Caymans is the Green Sea Turtle. This large turtle can grow to 5 ft. long and over 400 lbs. I had always assumed that they were named "Green Sea Turtle" because they were green, right? Well, apparently, they are mostly brownish/black with a white underbelly!! They are called "green" because the fat under their shells is green- who knew? The turtles can be found in many areas, both tropical and subtropical, both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. They migrate many miles and travel all over, but when it's time to mate and lay their eggs, the females always return to the same area where they were born. The female climbs onto the beach, digs a shallow nest, lays her eggs, and then that's it- she's gone! Not the best mothering but I'm sure she's just following her instincts :)

Then a few weeks later, a bunch of adorable little baby turtles come climbing out of the nest and wiggle down to the water. Awwww. One day I would love to witness that, but today I'll have to settle for making my own little Green Sea Turtle.