Turtles

where do sea turtles sleep


Where do Sea Turtles Sleep?

Sea turtles are beautiful and fascinating creatures, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. We know that they are often found laying on sandy beaches, but did you know that sea turtles sleep underwater?

Deep Water Slumber

The deeper the water, the more secure the sleep for our shelled friends. In order to survive, sea turtles need to take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. While most animals do this through their lungs while they sleep, turtles do so through their skin. This allows them to practice their normal respiratory processes while they rest, even while underwater.

When it’s time for rest, sea turtles will sink to the bottom of the ocean, lying still on the ocean floor. Here they can take advantage of the protective environment offered by the depths of the sea.

Finding Safety in Numbers

In addition to providing a flurry of potential predators, the shore brings an abundance of human activity and noise. To reduce the risk of becoming dinner for a larger creature or being taken by an unsuspecting human, turtles will often gather in large groups to sleep together in deeper water.

Dangers of Sleep

Despite the depths of the seas and the security of numbers, there are still many dangers to our aquatic friends while they sleep. Many species of turtles (particularly green turtles) are endangered and are closely watched by NGOs. Nets used by fishermen and beachfront construction can often prove fatal to sleeping sea turtles who may become tangled or stranded while they rest.

Conclusion

Sea turtles sleep underwater, often gathering in large groups to reduce the risk of becoming prey or being taken by humans. Despite the safety of the depths, human activity and fishing nets remain a possible threat to sea turtles while they sleep. Thus, we must take steps to protect sea turtles around the world and ensure that these wonderful animals remain safe for future generations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sea turtles sleep underwater
  • They sleep in large groups for safety
  • Humans pose a threat to sea turtle sleep

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