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Understanding the Foraging Habits of Endangered Leatherback Sea Turtles
The second set of shallower dives consisted mainly of Shapes E and F, which demonstrate behaviors similar to foraging or feeding near the ocean floor at night. This is because leatherback turtles feed on sea jellies that undergo a process called “diurnal vertical migration,” which involves hiding from predators in deeper, darker water during the day and moving closer to the surface at night to feed on nutrients in the upper part of the water column.
Through our analysis, we were excited to discover that the leatherbacks in our study were following their prey and other resources, such as preferred water temperature, using a strategy known as “vertical niche switching.” This allows them to optimize their foraging efforts and increase their chances of survival.
The Importance of Understanding Leatherback Turtle Behavior
Leatherback turtles, especially those in the Eastern Pacific population, are critically endangered. It is crucial to have a deep understanding of their habits in order to develop effective tools for their conservation. With the information gathered from our research, we were able to enhance the South Pacific TurtleWatch tool.
This unique model was created with the aim of empowering fishermen with knowledge of when and where they are most likely to encounter leatherback turtles in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. This information will help reduce unintentional capture of turtles (known as bycatch) in fishing operations.
Our Research and Its Impact on Leatherback Sea Turtles
To learn more about our work at Upwell in collecting multidimensional action data and fisheries effort data to protect critically endangered Eastern Pacific leatherback sea turtles, you can read the article “Incorporating multidimensional behavior into a risk management tool for a critically endangered and migratory species” published in Conservation Biology.
While working with data and algorithms may not be as glamorous as my previous field experiences, it is incredibly rewarding to use data analysis and coding to help preserve an amazing migratory and endangered species like the leatherback turtle.
Image credit: Leatherback sea turtle underwater by Juergen Freund
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Wow, I never knew there were yellow anacondas! Can’t wait to learn more about them.
Marcus: This is going to be an interesting read. I’ve always been intrigued by anacondas and their incredible size.
I’ve always found reptiles fascinating, and this article about the yellow anaconda is sure to be enlightening. Excited to dive into the mysteries surrounding this unique species!