Historically, indigenous coastal communities have hunted sea turtles and collected their eggs. The hunting, particularly for green turtles is culturally and often economically important to these people.

The hunting levels, particularly of adult female sea turtles, are poorly understood and may be unsustainable in many countries. Because of this, the impact on sea turtle populations is difficult to assess. It is important to understand the impact hunting has on sea turtle populations so we can maintain sustainable levels for future generations.

Sea Turtle Foundation is opposed to indiscriminate and unsustainable hunting. However we do not oppose sustainable hunting that is carried out for subsistence or cultural purposes.