This case study focuses on the conservation of the loggerhead sea turtle, a species listed as threatened since 1978 under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). As the most abundant marine turtle in U.S. waters, the loggerhead is of particular interest when considering effects of domestic fishery interactions, coastal development, and conservation efforts on its fate as a species.

Narratives, photographs, video clips, links, quotes, and biographies together create an interactive case study for the upper-level undergraduate student. The purpose of this case study is to introduce the student to:

• the evolutionary history, biology, and ecology of the loggerhead
• the threats, both natural and anthropogenic, to in water and on shore loggerheads
• the conservation methods employed to mitigate such threats
• the various stakeholders involved, and the specific role each plays in the conservation process
• and difficult questions that arise when considering the conservation of loggerheads

By examining the complications surrounding data collection, available research funding, population modeling and estimation, policy development, and the interactions between stakeholders, the student will gain an appreciation for the processes of managing and conserving a threatened species.

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