Sea turtle are cold-blooded reptiles that depend on the temperature of their surroundings to maintain their body temperature. Sea turtles can normally control their body temperatures by moving between areas of water with different temperatures or basking in the sun at the water's surface or on the beach.

Are leatherback turtles warm blooded or cold-blooded?

Although turtles are cold-blooded, which means their body temperature varies with ambient temperature, they regulate their body temperature by controlling the blood flow in the skin and fins. Moreover, a layer of blubber is protecting them from cold water and they can also sunbathe on the surface to warm up.

Why are leatherback sea turtles warm blooded?

Unlike their reptilian relatives, leatherbacks are able to maintain warm body temperatures in cold water by using a unique set of adaptations that allows them to both generate and retain body heat. These adaptations include large body size, changes in swimming activity and blood flow, and a thick layer of fat.