Sea Turtle Migration Map in the Pacific Ocean, with islands such as Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and the Kermadec Islands, and marked with directional arrows.

Olive Ridley
sea turtle
migration triangle

Researchers hypothesize that Polynesians likely used sea turtles as a seafaring aid. They may have observed or followed sea turtles swimming throughout the Pacific Ocean. Also Polynesian navigators may have confirmed the presence of islands based on the sea turtle's migration. The depth and speed that sea turtles travel, made following them by outrigger canoes possible.

Sea turtles were held in high regard in Polynesian cultures, often symbolizing connection to the sea, the afterlife, and even embodying gods or guides

The Olive Ridley sea turtle is a small marine turtle with an olive-green, heart-shaped shell. Found in warm tropical seas, the turtles have mass arribada nesting events and help balance ocean ecosystems by eating jellyfish, crabs, and other invertebrates.

Where do Olive Ridley
sea turtles live?

The turtles inhabit tropical waters of the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans, with the largest populations in Mexico, Costa Rica and India.

A turtle lying on a sandy beach with shadows cast over its shell.

Where is the largest rookery of Olive Ridley sea turtles?

The turtles lay their eggs on land. The world’s largest rookery of Olive Ridley sea turtles is located at the Gahirmatha Beach, India.

A person holding a baby turtle on their hand against a blue background.

Are Olive Ridley sea turtles endangered?

The Olive Ridley sea turtle is classified as a Vulnerable species globally on the IUCN Red List, which indicates the turtles face a high risk of extinction in the wild.

A large sea turtle resting on a beach with foam from the waves on its back, against a cloudy sky and the ocean in the background.

How long do Olive Ridley
sea turtles live?

The average lifespan of an Olive Ridley sea turtle in the wild is difficult to determine, but is estimated to be over 50 years.

A sea turtle swimming above a coral reef in clear blue water.