SEA TURTLE SPECIES – Olive Ridleys

SEA TURTLE SPECIES – Olive Ridleys, Lepidochelys olivacea

Photo Credit: Brad Flickinger

Olive ridleys are typically not seen here in South Florida waters but can be found in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Indian, and Southern Atlantic Oceans. They are the second smallest species of sea turtle, weighing anywhere between 75-100 pounds and can reach up to about 2 feet or so as an adult.

Olive ridleys nest in a mass nesting event known as an Arribada, alike Kemp’s ridleys. When they do nest, it is quite the sight to see. Being daytime nesters isn’t the only thing that makes these turtles unique. They also have synchronized nesting events, called Arribadas, where thousands of turtles will crawl up at the same time to nest.

TURTELY COOL OLIVE RIDLEY FACTS

Nest in Arribadas, where thousands of females nest over a few days’ time
They are omnivores, eating anything from crabs, jellies, to fish
They are named for their pale green coloration on their shell

The olive ridley is listed as vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List on a global scale and is listed as threatened in the United States.