NOAA Fisheries Image Gallery

Hatchling Kemp's Ridley Turtle Heads to Sea

Picture by: NOAA Fisheries Protected Resoureces Picture taken on: June 6th, 2005

Tags: turtle southeast

A hatchling Kemp's ridley heads out to sea. The hatchlings begin their climb out of the nest in a coordinated effort. Once near the surface, they will often remain there until the temperature of the sand cools, usually indicating nighttime, when they are less likely to be eaten by predators or overheat. Once the baby turtles emerge from the nest, they use cues to find the water including the slope of the beach, the white crests of the waves, and the natural light of the ocean horizon. Artificial beachfront lighting can be a major problem because it attracts these tiny creatures inland away from the water. This photo was taken under a NOAA Fisheries scientific research permit. Admire wildlife from a distance, for your safety and their protection. This photo was taken under a NOAA Fisheries scientific research permit. Admire wildlife from a distance, for your safety and their protection

Related Story: Baby Kemp's ridley Turtle Heads to Sea