While Alaska is often associated with cold climates, the presence of turtles in this northern state might come as a surprise. Turtles do exist within Alaskan boundaries, though their occurrence is not as widespread as in warmer regions. These reptilian inhabitants include transient marine visitors and non-native species introduced through human activity. No naturally occurring native freshwater or terrestrial turtle species are found in Alaska.
Turtles Visiting Alaskan Waters
Alaska’s marine environment hosts several species of sea turtles that are transient visitors. These species typically journey into Alaskan waters from warmer regions, often following currents or prey. Records indicate the presence of four distinct sea turtle species: Leatherback, Green, Loggerhead, and Olive Ridley turtles.
Leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are the most frequently observed in Alaskan waters, with 19 sightings recorded between 1963 and 2020. These large turtles can tolerate colder temperatures better due to their unique physiology, which includes a high oil content and large body size. Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) have also been reported, with 21 documented sightings between 1963 and 2020. While primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters, Green sea turtles can migrate into cooler temperate and boreal areas.
Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) are much rarer visitors, with only two to three reports between 1960 and 2020. Olive Ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) are also uncommon, with four reported sightings, the last occurring in 2004. Sea turtle sightings in Alaska are typically concentrated in the Gulf of Alaska, and while their presence is monitored, the cold water poses a threat to these reptiles, as they do not regulate their own body temperature.
Non-Native and Pet Turtles in Alaska
Beyond occasional sea turtle visitors, Alaska’s ecosystems also encounter non-native turtle species, primarily due to human actions. The Red-Eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) is the most common non-native turtle found in Alaska, frequently appearing in freshwater bodies. These turtles, popular in the pet trade, are often released into the wild by owners who can no longer care for them.
The introduction of Red-Eared Sliders poses several threats to local environments. They are highly adaptable and can outcompete native species for essential resources like food, basking spots, and nesting sites. These released pets can transmit diseases, such as Salmonella and ranavirus, to wild reptile and amphibian populations that lack natural immunity. The Red-Eared Slider is recognized globally as one of the 100 worst invasive species due to its significant ecological impact.
Releasing pet turtles into the wild, even with good intentions, is detrimental to the animal and the environment. Pet turtles often lack the foraging skills necessary to survive in the wild and are susceptible to diseases they have not encountered in captivity. This practice is discouraged and can be illegal. If a pet turtle can no longer be cared for, contacting local animal shelters or rescue organizations for rehoming is a more responsible alternative than releasing it into the wild.