Sea turtles’ anatomy is quite similar among the species. We illustrate the Loggerhead anatomy, because this is the most frequent species of marine turtle to nest on Waties Island and throughout coastal South Carolina.

Loggerhead Anatomy

Caretta caretta

Loggerheads (Caretta carretta) are marine reptiles with a large carapace with horny plates or scales called scutes. The upper shell is reddish-brown with yellow edges. The under shell, the plastron, is yellowish. The head and legs are nonretractable. These turtles have four flipper-like legs, and there are two small claws on each leg. The carapace is composed of backbone with adjoining ribs. They also have a short pointy tail. Loggerheads can reach up to 3 ½ feet long and weigh up to 350 pounds.