This very relaxed Green Turtle was photographed on the 15 m sand/rubble sloping drop-off at Limestone Bay, Anguilla. It very obligingly let me make a close approach, but kept a watchful eye the whole time. Green Turtles of foraging age such as this are the most common species of turtle in Anguillian waters, followed by foraging Hawksbill Turtles. The foraging populations are very distinct from the nesting populations of these two species due to their smaller size and non-migratory nature. After hatching from their beach nest, infant turtles disappear out to sea for a couple of years before returning as juveniles to forage on their preferred habitat. They remain on this foraging habitat until they reach maturity some years later when they begin their migratory adult life and travel extensive distances feeding and reproducing. Amazing creatures, and one that everyone should experience in their lifetime.
Originally posted on Instagram @sea_anguilla with the text: Green Turtle camouflaged in the deep offshore from Limestone Bay just after dawn. These beautiful peaceful creatures are a true pleasure to see – this one hadn’t woken up properly yet and allowed me to take this close up shot. If you look carefully I am sure you can still see sleep in its eyes.