Green Sea Turtle, Okinawa Japan

There is a small chain of islands that are off the coast of the Okinawa, Japan. These small islands are surrounded by coral for miles and inhabit an abundance of sea life. Green turtles migrate and live in this area all year round. There are pockets of current that drive nutrients thru the reefs to preserve and keep them healthy. This brings in other life as well. One moment you can have calm seas and another you have a strong current. For the most part, the Kerama Islands are an easy dive, most days. The sea turtle in this photo was coming from one reef to another and was moving at a good speed. It took me by surprise. The turtle came right over me, gliding thru the water. I was looking in the other direction when I saw him out of the corner of my eye. There is so much ocean life in a concentrated area it is sometimes hard to look for a specific thing. I call this looking too hard. Swim slow and look slower and you will find some critters you were not even expecting. Occasionally a sea turtle here and there. I have gotten lucky in the Keramas and seen up to 6 turtles on one dive. If you see one, you can swim a little to them but they swim very fast.There is no point in trying to chase them. There acceleration is incredible and effortless.I would say this turtle was about 2.5 feet wide or less than a meter in length. The opportunity to take photos of green turtles swimming is fleeting but can be rewarding. This one was no exception. I was only able to get this one shot and he was on his way.