The leatherback sea turtle is a listed species in the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). Find detailed information on the leatherback sea turtle, its threats, and what Massachusetts is doing to conserve this animal in its official factsheet.
Fast facts
Common name: Leatherback sea turtle
Scientific name: Dermochelys coriacea
Range in MA: Entire MA coastline
Conservation status: Endangered (MESA), Endangered (US ESA)
Fun fact: Leatherback sea turtles are the only surviving member of the monotypic family Dermochelyidae.
Similar-looking species: ocean sunfish
Identification tip: Leatherbacks have a black rubbery carapace with seven ridges running front to back
Description
Leatherbacks are the largest living turtles (4-6 ft long) and are a truly remarkable component of the Massachusetts fauna. They are easily distinguishable from all other sea turtles by their bluish, slate-gray, or black rubbery carapace with pronounced ridges and lack of carapace scutes. Seven ridges run front to back on its carapace and there are small white splotches sporadically appear across the entire body. The leatherback’s carapace (upper shell) is comprised of interconnected dermal bone (osteoderm) covered by connective tissue and fat. Individual leatherbacks also have a deeply notched jaw with two cusps. Leatherbacks have longer front flippers in proportion to their body and their rear flippers have a distinctive paddle-like shape.