Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, world’s smallest sea turtle species, discovered in Chandeleur Islands off coast of New Orleans
In the second half of the 20th century, the population of the Kemp’s ridley turtle dropped drastically, reaching a low of only several hundred females.In the second half of the 20th century, the population of the Kemp’s ridley turtle dropped drastically, reaching a low of only several hundred females.
“Louisiana was largely written off as a nesting spot for sea turtles decades ago, but this determination demonstrates why barrier island restoration is so important,” said the coastal authority’s chairman, Chip Kline. “It is well known that the Chandeleur Islands provide key habitats for a host of important species; however, with the recent discovery of a successful Kemp’s ridley sea turtle hatching, the islands’ value to the region has been elevated,” said the wildlife and fisheries department’s secretary, Jack Montoucet.