Leatherback Sea Turtle Dermochelys coriacea (Vandelli, 1761)G2 (Globally rare)  -  Endangered (Federal)  -  Endangered (MD)  -  S1N (State rare non-breeder)    
Kingdom Animalia   >   Phylum Chordata   >   Class Reptilia   >   Order Testudines   >   Family Dermochelyidae   >   Genus Dermochelys   

Status:

Leatherbacks are the world's largest turtle species--they can grow to 2 meters long and weigh over 2,000 pounds. It is the sole living representative from an ancient lineage dating back 100 million years. One of the most impressive creatures on the planet. Highly state rare (S1), globally rare (G2), and listed as a state and federal endangered species.

There are 16 records in the project database.

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A Leatherback Sea Turtle in Maryland waters near Baltimore Canyon (8/16/2009). Photo by Bill Hubick. (MBP list)

A Leatherback Sea Turtle in Massachusetts waters (8/25/2012). Photo by Marshall Iliff. (MBP list)

A Leatherback Sea Turtle off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina (5/22/2011). Photo by Dan Irizarry. (MBP list)


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