Lepidochelys kempii
The Kemp's ridley sea turtle was named after a fisherman from Key West, Florida
named Richard M. Kemp. Kemp submitted the new species for identification in 1906.
Size 24 to 28 inches long, around 100 pounds
Diet Crabs, fish, jellies and an array of mollusks
Lifespan Thought to be 7 to 15 years, but might be up to 35 years
Range Tropical to temperate waters worldwide
Habitat Throughout the Gulf of Mexico and the U.S. Atlantic seaboard, from Florida to New England
Predators Foxes, weasels, cats, dogs, raccoons, crabs and more eat
eggs and
hatchlings. Sharks and other large fishes prey on juveniles and adults.
Relatives There are seven species of sea turtles, including the green,
loggerhead,
Kemp’s ridley, olive ridley, hawksbill, flat back and leatherback.
Family life Female Kemp’s ridleys nest all at once in a large group called an arriba. In 1947, about 42,000 turtles nested in an arriba in Rancho Nuevo Mexico.
Conservation status Critically Endangered Kemp's ridleys face major threats from accidental catch.
Explore other profiles Check out green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles and harbor seals.
Aquarium home movies: TK
Visit me at the Aquarium:
Come to the giant ocean tank to meet Scute, a Kemp's ridley sea turtle. He weighs 52 pounds and you'll recognize him by his small size, grayish green shell and creamy green and white plastron.
We are making a difference
The Aquarium’s Marine Animal Rescue Team rescues and rehabilitates dozens of sick and injured sea turtles every year.
Blue Lifestyle tips
You can make a difference by choosing ocean-friendly seafood options. Support suppliers who use fishing methods that are less likely to accidentally catch sea turtles.