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Kemp's Ridley Hatchling

A juvenile Kemp's ridley sea turtle emerges from the nest
(Terry Ross, Flickr)

Kemp's ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) often emerge from their nests during the day, which is a rare (and dangerous) thing for sea turtle hatchlings! They are the most critically endangered sea turtle species in the world, and have inspired international cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico to protect nesting beaches, implement more stringent fishing regulations, and foster community outreach efforts. Read more in this Ocean Portal article.

Tags: Sea turtles