A new international survey revealed that endangered sea turtle populations are starting to recover in many parts of the world. The study, published in Endangered Species Research, looked at 48 sea turtle groups from different parts of the world. More than half of these areas are seeing fewer dangers like illegal hunting, pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. While most sea turtle species are still endangered or vulnerable, the findings offer hope for the future. The study found that sea turtle populations in the Atlantic Ocean are growing faster than those in the Pacific. However, leatherback turtles continue to struggle the most. These turtles travel long distances—over 3,700 miles—and face many threats along the way, making them especially at risk.

Researchers say that species like the green turtle are doing better thanks to conservation efforts that began many years ago. These include banning commercial hunting, protecting nesting beaches, and creating stricter fishing rules in places like Mexico and the U.S. Ecologist Michelle María Early Capistrán explained that although these rules were introduced decades ago, the positive results are only now becoming clear. Still, sea turtles are often caught accidentally in fishing gear. New tools are being developed to help prevent this, but they need to be used more widely. Experts say global cooperation is key to saving these ancient animals.