The Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) is a small to medium-sized marine turtle recognized by its heart-shaped, olive-green carapace that gives the species its name. Adults typically measure around 60-70 cm in shell length and weigh between 35-50 kg. It is one of the most abundant sea turtles in the world but still faces major threats. This species is best known for its remarkable mass nesting events called arribadas, where thousands of females come ashore simultaneously to lay eggs.
Aggressive or Danger to Human? This species is non-aggressive and pose no danger to humans. They are generally shy and avoid human interaction both in water and on nesting beaches.
Population Status: Vulnerable (VU) Globally (Source: IUCN Red List).
Habitat and Habits: Olive Ridley Sea Turtles inhabit warm tropical and subtropical oceans, including the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans. They are primarily pelagic, spending most of their lives in the open ocean but migrating long distances between feeding and nesting grounds. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of jellyfish, crustaceans, mollusks, and occasionally algae. Nesting occurs on sandy beaches, often in large synchronized events, mainly at night. Major nesting sites are found along the coasts of India, Central America, and West Africa. Despite their adaptability, Olive Ridleys are threatened by fisheries bycatch, egg collection, coastal development, and marine pollution.