Kemp's Ridley sea turtles are the smallest of all marine turtles and also the most endangered. They are found in the coastal waters and bays of the Gulf of Mexico and the northern Atlantic Ocean. They have been observed feeding on crabs, fish, jellyfish, and mollusks. Like the other sea turtles, Kemp's Ridley sea turtles have a long lifespan and can live up to 50 years.

Until recently, this species was on the brink of extinction in the 1960's. But thanks to strict protection laws over their nesting beaches in Mexico and reduced accidental capture in fishing gear, Kemp's Ridley sea turtles have begun a slow, but steady comeback.