National Turtle Day

Today we celebrate one of our favorite sea creatures, the Green Sea Turtle. It's Hawaiian name is Honu, and is considered sacred by locals.

"Turtles are one of the oldest creatures on earth. The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, known as “Honu,” symbolizes good luck, endurance and long life. Turtles can show up as a person’s guardian spirit, known as “Aumakua.” When lost, turtles are excellent navigators and often find their way home. Legend states that a green sea turtle guided the first Polynesian settlers to the islands."- Olukai.com

Here are some interesting facts from Maui Magic Snorkeling Charters

Green Sea Turtle: COOL FACTS!

1. Green Sea Turtles are named for the green color of the fat found under its shell.

2. They spend most of their lives submerged, but must come to the surface and breathe air.

3. At sleep/rest they submerge and can hold their breath for 4-7 hours while relaxed.

4. They can live for 70-80 years.

5. Hawaii's Green Sea Turtles breed and birth their young in the French Frigate Shoals (located 550 nautical miles NW of Honolulu).

6. A nest of turtle eggs is called a "clutch" and can have between 80-120 eggs.

7. 90% of turtle eggs will hatch while only 1 in 4,000 babies actually live to be an adult.

8. Males travel to the breeding grounds annually, while females visit every 2 years.

9. They can weigh-in at a whopping 700 pounds.

10. The male's tail is slightly larger and longer than the female.