Sea Turtles are majestic, slow-moving creatures that traverse the oceans of Helerin, though they are considered fairly uncommon. Known for their long lifespans and slow, graceful swimming, these creatures are regarded with reverence by coastal people. While sightings of Sea Turtles are rare, they are seen as symbols of endurance and wisdom in local legends.
Physical Appearance
Sea Turtles in Helerin have large, domed shells that provide protection from predators. They typically grow between 3 and 5 feet in length, with their shells ranging in color from dark green to brown, often mottled with lighter patterns. Their flippers are long and powerful, allowing them to glide through the water with ease. Despite their bulky appearance, Sea Turtles are agile swimmers and can travel great distances across the sea.
Habitat
Sea Turtles are found in the deeper waters of the Gamanaean Ocean and occasionally come closer to the shores of Mar Mabon and the Seynan Islands during their long migrations. They prefer warm waters with access to shallow bays where they can nest. During the breeding season, females come ashore on isolated beaches to lay their eggs, before returning to the sea. However, due to their rarity, such sightings are infrequent.
Behaviour
Sea Turtles are solitary creatures, spending most of their lives in the open ocean. They are slow but steady swimmers, capable of migrating across great distances in search of food or nesting grounds. Their diet consists mainly of seagrass, algae, and small marine creatures such as jellyfish. Sea Turtles are long-lived animals, with many living for over a century. Breeding occurs during late summer, when females come ashore to lay their eggs in sandy nests.
Geographic Distribution
While Sea Turtles are uncommon, they can be found in the deeper waters of the Gamanaean Ocean, occasionally venturing to the shores of Mar Mabon and the Seynan Islands. Their nesting sites are usually remote and undisturbed, as the creatures prefer quiet, isolated beaches for laying eggs. Sightings of Sea Turtles are considered rare, and their presence is often a topic of excitement for coastal communities.
Interaction with People
Due to their rarity and the perceived wisdom associated with their long lives, Sea Turtles hold a special place in the mythology of coastal communities. They are rarely hunted, as their appearance is often seen as a good omen. However, some eggs are occasionally collected by isolated islanders, though this practice is discouraged in order to protect the species. Legends of Sea Turtles guiding lost sailors or bringing fortune to those who encounter them are common in Helerin’s coastal lore.
Comments