Turtle Tales Unveiled
Thailand, particularly the Andaman Sea region, is home to an array of captivating turtle species. These ancient creatures possess unique adaptations and migratory patterns that contribute to the area’s thriving marine biodiversity. Join us as we dive into the world of turtles in the Thai Seas, exploring notable species that call it their home, the challenges they face, and the conservation programs in place.
What Sea Turtle Species are found in Thailand?

Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas):
The Andaman Sea is inhabited by the Green Turtle, one of the most prevalent turtle species in the region. Recognizable by its olive-colored shell, it can reach lengths of up to 1.2 meters and weigh over 200 kilograms. These herbivorous turtles primarily feed on seagrass and algae, utilizing Thai waters as significant foraging grounds. They are often sighted around the Similan Islands and Surin Islands.
Nesting Ground: Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea
Nesting Period: April – November, with peaks from July to October.

Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata):
Another iconic species found in the Andaman Sea is the Hawksbill Turtle. Distinguished by its pointed beak and beautiful tortoiseshell-patterned shell, the Hawksbill Turtle is critically endangered. These turtles play a crucial role in maintaining coral reef health as they feed on sponges, controlling sponge populations and promoting coral growth. They can occasionally be spotted around popular dive sites such as the Phi Phi Islands and the Similan Islands.
Nesting Ground: Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea
Nesting Period: Throughout the year.

Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea):
The Leatherback Turtle holds the title for being the largest sea turtle species, known for its unique leathery shell. With lengths of up to 2 meters and weighing over 900 kilograms, these turtles are highly migratory, traveling vast distances across oceans. While they are not as commonly seen in Thai waters as other species, they occasionally visit the Andaman Sea, particularly around Phang Nga Bay.
Nesting Ground: Andaman Sea
Nesting Period: Throughout the year.

Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea):
The Andaman Sea is also home to the Olive Ridley Turtle, the smallest of the sea turtle species found in the region. Recognizable by its heart-shaped shell, these turtles are known for their synchronized nesting behavior, where large groups of females come ashore to lay their eggs simultaneously. While more commonly found in the Gulf of Thailand, Olive Ridley Turtles can also be encountered in the Andaman Sea, particularly around the Surin Islands.
Nesting Ground: Andaman Sea
Nesting Period: October – March, with a peak in December.

Loggerhead Turtle:
The Loggerhead Turtle, a globally recognized sea turtle species, can also be found in Thailand’s waters. These magnificent creatures are known for their large heads and powerful jaws. Although they do not have nesting grounds in Thailand, Loggerhead Turtles occasionally visit Thai waters during their extensive oceanic migrations.
Nesting Ground: No nesting ground in Thailand.
Threats Faced by Sea Turtles in Thailand
Sea turtles in Thailand face significant challenges to their survival and conservation efforts. In the past, they were subject to severe exploitation, with their shells, skin, meat, and eggs being highly valued. This exploitation pushed them perilously close to extinction. The introduction of trawling and drift gill nets in 1964 further intensified the threats, resulting in a sharp increase in exploitation for overseas export. Although sea turtles are now protected by law in Thailand, they still encounter ongoing threats, including poaching, habitat destruction, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and the impacts of climate change. These pressures continue to jeopardize the survival of sea turtles in Thai waters, emphasizing the importance of sustained conservation efforts and raising awareness to ensure their long-term protection.
Thailand’s Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts
Thailand recognizes the significance of protecting its sea turtles and has implemented various conservation initiatives. These include establishing protected marine areas, enforcing regulations against turtle egg harvesting, and promoting public awareness about the importance of turtle conservation. Additionally, numerous organizations and marine research institutions are dedicated to studying and safeguarding these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
By understanding and appreciating the diverse species of turtles in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, we can contribute to their conservation and ensure the preservation of their habitats for future generations to enjoy these remarkable marine creatures.
There are several turtle foundations, organizations, and local initiatives throughout Thailand that contribute to sea turtle conservation efforts. If you’re interested in supporting sea turtle conservation in Thailand, you can consider volunteering with these organizations, participating in beach clean-ups, or making donations to support their initiatives.
- Thai Sea Turtle Conservation Center (TSTCC)
- Phuket Marine Biological Center
- Maikhao Marine Turtle Foundation
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