Sea turtle, Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Ancient swimmers, modern struggles. World Sea Turtle Day

They've got built-in helmets, a slow-and-steady vibe and zero interest in your deadlines. Sea turtles, like this one photographed in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil, have been cruising Earth's oceans since before T-rex was a thing. Today, World Sea Turtle Day, is about recognising these ancient navigators and the role they play in keeping our oceans in balance. Why June 16? The date marks the birthday of American conservationist Archie Carr, known as the 'father of sea turtle conservation.' His work laid the foundation for understanding turtle behaviour and fighting for their protection. There are seven species of sea turtles gliding through the world's oceans: green, loggerhead, hawksbill, leatherback, Kemp's ridley, olive ridley and flatback. Most of them are either endangered or vulnerable.

Beyond supporting thriving fishing grounds, Indian coastal waters and beaches also serve as vital feeding and nesting areas for a range of marine species — including sea turtles. The coastal regions and islands are home to five sea turtle species: the Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles. Of these, all except the Loggerhead are known to nest along the Indian coastline, making it an important habitat for turtle conservation.