About The Species Loggerheads were named for their relatively large heads, which support powerful jaws and enable them to feed on hard-shelled prey, such as whelks and conch. They are circumglobal, occurring throughout the temperate and tropical regions of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Loggerheads are the most abundant species of sea turtle found in U.S. coastal waters. Five distinct population segments (DPS) of loggerheads are listed as endangered and 4 DPS are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. NOAA Fisheries is committed to conserving and protecting loggerhead sea turtles. Our scientists and partners use a variety of innovative techniques to study and protect this species. Learn more about loggerhead sea turtles. Status ESA Endangered in 5 distinct population segments Northeast Atlantic Ocean DPS Mediterranean Sea DPS North Indian Ocean DPS North Pacific Ocean DPS South Pacific Ocean DPS ESA Threatened in 4 distinct population segments Northwest Atlantic Ocean DPS South Atlantic Ocean DPS Southeast Indo-Pacific Ocean DPS Southwest Indian Ocean DPS CITES Appendix I throughout its range Throughout Its Range Scientific Classification Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Class Reptilia Order Testudines Family Cheloniidae Genus Caretta Species caretta
