Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle

Kemp's Ridley is the world's smallest sea turtle, with a nearly circular shell rarely exceeding 70 cm across. Found in warm Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico waters, this species is critically endangered following decades of egg poaching and fishing-net entanglement. Divers in suitable habitat may spot them foraging on the seafloor for crabs and molluscs, or cruising in open water. Their compact build and reddish-brown colouration distinguish them from larger sea turtle species.