Uses a voice your browser identifies as local. Starts only when you press Read.
Lepidochelys olivacea
A small sea turtle famous for spectacular group nesting events.
Meet this turtle
Olive ridleys live in tropical Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian waters, both offshore and near coasts. They eat varied foods, including algae and small marine animals. Some nesting beaches host synchronized arrivals called arribadas, while many females nest alone. Scientists do not know their exact maximum lifespan.
Conservation in context
Conservation needs differ across populations. Large nesting gatherings do not mean every population is secure.
Global assessments and national legal listings answer different questions. For a dated global comparison, see the seven-species guide. Categories can change as assessments are updated.
Think like a scientist
What are the benefits and possible costs of many turtles nesting on one beach?
Keep exploring
Check the source
NOAA Fisheries: Olive ridley turtle. Source checked . This is an editorial source check, not independent scientific certification.