My recent trip to the New England Aquarium in Boston, MA brought the stunning sea turtle to my attention. There I saw a green sea turtle and a loggerhead. Both were very beautiful, massive and left a lasting impression on me. My latest totem animal piece was inspired by them. At first, I wasn’t happy with how the piece turned out because it didn’t turn out the way I wanted it too. Although, keeping Zentangle in mind, you cannot have a preconceived notion on how the piece will turn out. Just draw and let it happen. Don’t force it. I went back and touched it up a bit after remembering this and began to like it a bit more. I think I might work on the ink a little more before I add the color. Once the color is complete I will cover the sea turtles symbolism. For now, some interesting facts and conservation updates!

Sea turtles can be found all over the world! There are seven different species which include the green sea turtle, the loggerhead, the leatherback, the flatback, Kemp’s ridley, olive ridley and the hawksbill. The largest is the leatherback which can reach up to 8 feet long and can weigh over a ton, literally! Some species can dive to 3,000 feet and hold their breath for up to five hours. All sea turtles are carnivores except for green sea turtles which are herbivores.

Six out of seven of these species are endangered, however. Their main threat being pollution, loss of nesting beaches, over hunting and getting trapped in fishing nets. There are many other dangers to sea turtles, mostly inflicted by humans, but there are ways to help!

You can purchase bracelets from cool companies like 4Ocean and Planet Love Life that work to clean up the ocean and beaches. Or you can volunteer with local groups to help clean them up yourself! Recycling is always a simple and effortless way to make a difference as well. If you live near the beach, be aware of nesting grounds and steer clear. Many beaches may already have areas blocked off from the public to protect the nests. Below are a few sites you can check out to learn more about how to help sea turtle conservation!

Thanks for stopping by this week! I hope you enjoyed my latest totem drawing and some neat sea turtle facts. Check back next Monday for the completed piece and their symbolism.

Until next time,

“And the turtles of course…all the turtles are free, as turtles and, maybe, all creatures should be.”

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More About Conservation

• https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/green-turtle

• http://ocean.si.edu/slideshow/meet-seven-sea-turtle-species

• https://www.livescience.com/55507-sea-turtles.html

Cool Companies with Cool Ideas!

• https://4ocean.com/

• https://planetlovelife.com/

• https://www.craftbeer.com/editors-picks/saltwater-brewery-creates-edible-six-pack-rings

Ending quote from “Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories” by Dr. Suess