The rare leatherback turtle comes to southern Nova Scotia during the summer months, to feed on jellyfish. Leatherbacks can reach 6 to 8 feet in length and weigh 1200 to 1500 pounds. These turtles are listed as a federally protected endangered species. Worldwide population estimates indicate a decline in numbers of leatherbacks between 1980 and 1995. This decline is attributed to a number of factors including loss of nesting habitats, destruction of nests and propeller wounds.

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