Sea turtles can hold their breath for different durations depending on their activity. During routine dives, they usually hold their breath for about 4 to 7 minutes. However, when resting or sleeping underwater, they can hold their breath much longer, typically for 4 to 7 hours. In cold water during hibernation, they can remain submerged for up to 7 hours. While foraging or active, they generally surface every few minutes but can stay underwater for 20 to 40 minutes. Loggerhead sea turtles have been recorded holding their breath for up to 10 hours when resting. The ability to hold breath for such long durations is supported by physiological adaptations such as a slow metabolic rate, efficient oxygen use, and reduced heart rate during dives.