Green sea turtles are so named for the greenish hue of their skin. They have heads that cannot retract into their bodies, a trait commonly associated with turtles. Reaching speeds of up to 56 km/h (35 mph), their streamlined shell and paddle-like flippers aid in their ability to swim quickly and with grace.

Green sea turtles are also known to sunbathe on land. Unlike most other sea turtles, adult green sea turtles eat a primarily plant-based diet consisting of seaweed and sea grass. Scientists believe these green foods give the sea turtle’s fat its green color. The shell of the green sea turtle is usually shades of a brown or olive color.