Endangered Species of the Month (April)

Name: Green Sea Turtle

Chamorro Name: Haggan

Scientific Name: Chelonia mydas

Status: Endangered

Facts: Green Sea turtles are the largest of all hard-shelled turtles. Babies are born to be about 2 inches long, while fully grown adults can grow to be about 3 feet long and weight around 350 pounds. What gives these turtles their name "Green", is because of their diet. Not like other sea turtles, the Green Sea turtles are herbivorous, feeding mainly on sea grasses and algae.

One of the biggest reason that these turtles have become endangered is because of commercial harvest for their eggs and meat. Another big reason for the decline in population is that these turtles may suffer from a disease called Fibropapillomatosis. This disease is characterized by the multiple tumors on the skin and in the internal organs. These tumors interfere with breathing, swimming, vision, and reproduction. Lastly, another reason for there decline in population is degradation.

Environmental Expo 2011

On April 12, 13, and 14, DEQ held its annual Environmental Expo over at The American Memorial Park. The Micronesia Challenge had its own booth which was set up and ran by myself (David), and Kid. It was a fun experience for both Kid and I, as we got to talk to 4^th and 5^th grade students from around the island on what the Micronesia Challenge is. We explained to them what the goals of the challenge were, and made them think as a group what some ways of conservation were. After that, we made them play a game that involved spinning a wheel. Every student wanted to spin the wheel, but only three per class was allowed to. We asked them questions on Marine and Land resources, as well “who am I” questions. In the end, they were all winners and got to pick some prizes.

We both were amazed of how bright and interested each student was. Here are some pictures of us in action at the Expo. Enjoy!