Turtles in Hawaii travel as far as 800 miles to the French Frigate shoals, northwest of the main Hawaiian Islands, to mate. The females laboriously crawl ashore, dig a deep nest in the sand and lay close to 100 round, leathery eggs. When the 1 ounce hatchlings emerge, they scurry rapidly for the protection of the sea, many falling prey to hungry crabs and sea birds on the way. It is estimated that only 1 or 2 from each nest may make it to maturity. Much is unknown about the lives of the turtles. We do know that they are a magnificent animal, deserving of our respect and utmost efforts to preserve them. Should you be fortunate enough to spot a turtle while diving, be very still and quiet. They can be quite curious and will often approach and give you the once over, or simply ignore you as they continue about their business. Green Sea turtles are air breathers, like us. When they are active they must surface to breathe every 2 minutes or so; when they are sleeping, usually tucked under a ledge on the bottom, they can remain underwater for as long as 2 1/2 hours. However, when they are stressed, they use up their oxygen very rapidly and can drown. It is against federal law to ride or harass sea turtles and is punishable by heavy fines. If you see anyone harassing a turtle or if you observe a sick or injured animal, please go to the nearest phone and call Conservation Enforcement at 548-5918 on Oahu.
The best places for turtle watching on Oahu are at Waimea Bay on the North Shore and Ala Moana Beach Park.
Courtesy: This Week Publications 808-526-1702
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