Turtles In Trouble

After 220 million years on earth, turtles are beginning to feel the effects of climate change and habitat loss: new studies show that over half of turtle species can be classified as “threatened.”

The sex of many species of turtles is determined by the temperature of the nest during incubation. The cooler nests produce males, while the warmer nests tend to produce males. Unfortunately, global rising temperatures may result in abnormal male to female ratios. 

"Turtles are centrally nested in the food web and are symbols of our natural heritage,” explains Deanna Olson, co-chair of the Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation team. “They hold a significant role in many cultures. For example, in many southeast Asian cultures turtles are used for food, pets, and medicine."

The Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation organization is hoping to make 2011 the “year of the turtle.”