Go beyond loving sea turtles. Understand them.
Explore the biology, ecology and conservation of these remarkable animals — and discover what it takes to protect them.
Sea turtles are more than charismatic animals
They have fascinating life cycles, complex relationships with marine ecosystems, and a long history of adapting to life in the ocean.
But they also face threats throughout different stages of their lives.
This course takes you from identification and biology to ecology, conservation and action.
Understand
Learn about species, identification and life history.
Discover
Explore the ecological role of sea turtles and the challenges they face.
Take Action
Understand conservation efforts and what you can do to help.
Your journey into sea turtle ecology
1°) Sea Turtle Species & Taxonomy
Meet the sea turtles of our oceans.
Discover the different sea turtle species and learn the characteristics that can help you distinguish them.
2°) Sea Turtle Life Cycle
Follow sea turtles on their incredible journey: from tiny hatchlings to ocean wanderers returning to their birthplace to nest.
3°) Ecological Importance
Move beyond the idea of sea turtles as simply beautiful animals.
Discover how sea turtles support the balance of ocean life, helping to preserve the health and diversity of marine ecosystems.
4°) Threats they face
Sea turtles encounter threats throughout their lives, from their time on nesting beaches to their years in the ocean.
Explore the major pressures affecting sea turtle populations and understand how human activities can influence their survival.
5°) Conservation Efforts
Discover how researchers, conservation organisations and communities work to protect sea turtles.
Learn about global and local initiatives working to protect sea turtles and their habitats, and the inspiring success stories showing that recovery is possible.
6°) How to help
Discover practical ways you can contribute to sea turtle conservation: whether you're a traveller, diver, snorkeler, beachgoer or simply someone who cares about the ocean.
Learn actively with your
interactive workbook
Alongside the course lessons, you’ll have an interactive workbook designed to help you:
*review what you’ve learned
*connect the different concepts
*put your knowledge into practice
*leave with notes to get back to later if needed
It’s included in both the online course & the in-person experience, so no matter how you choose to learn with Reef Matters, you’ll have a hands-on way to reinforce your learning.
Included with every course: online & in person.
Who is this for?
You don't need to be a marine biologist.
This course is designed for anyone curious about sea turtles and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Divers
Understand more about the animals you encounter underwater.
Snorkelers
Explore the ecological side of one of the ocean's most iconic animals.
Sea turtle lovers
Go beyond admiration and learn how these animals actually live.
Conservation enthusiasts
Discover how sea turtle conservation works and how you can contribute.
Utila Visitors
Turn your time on the island into an opportunity to learn about its marine life.
After the course, you'll be able to:
- Recognize the different sea turtle species
- Understand the major stages of a sea turtle's life
- Explain why sea turtles are ecologically important
- Recognise the major threats they face
- Understand different approaches to sea turtle conservation
- Make more informed choices when interacting with sea turtles and their habitats
- Identify ways you can contribute to their protection
Learn with someone who's worked with sea turtles
I'm Mariam, a marine biologist, dive instructor and marine educator.
I've worked in sea turtle conservation in Mexico & Costa Rica and I created Reef Matters to make marine science accessible to people who want to understand and protect the ocean.
Ready to understand sea turtles beyond the surface?
Start your sea turtle ecology journey today
In Utila, Honduras
Visiting Utila? Depending on timing and BICA's conservation activities, you may also have the opportunity to witness a hatchling release. This is not guaranteed and cannot be scheduled in advance.
Frequently asked questions
No. The course is designed as an introduction to sea turtle ecology.
Six modules covering species identification, life cycle, ecological importance, threats, conservation and how you can help.
Yes. If you choose the online version, it is self paced.
No, the course itself is about sea turtle ecology and does not require diving experience.
A hatchling release may sometimes coincide with your visit to Utila, depending on the timing of nesting/hatching activity and BICA's conservation activities. It cannot be guaranteed or scheduled in advance.
Yes, upon completion of the course.
Can I take the course online?
Yes. If you choose this option, it is self-paced.