Chelonia mydas
Identification.
Smaller, darker (blackish or olive carapace) and more domed-shelled than green turtles elsewhere in the world.
Galápagos context.
The Galapagos population is genuinely distinct from the wider species. Primary nesting beaches include Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz) and Punta Cormorant (Floreana).
Encounter context.
Seen around every island, year-round, and considered among the calmer, more approachable species for divers.
Seasonality.
Nesting season runs roughly November-May, peaking February-March, at night and rarely witnessed directly.