Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Lepidochelys kempii
Peconic & Gardiners Bay
The smallest sea turtle in the world, and endangered throughout its range. Juveniles range up the Atlantic as far as Nova Scotia; mass cold-stunning strandings follow a sudden drop in inshore water temperature.
Best months
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Best time of day
- Daytime bay trips
- How to see
- Spot from kayak; report strandings to NY Marine Rescue (631-369-9829).
- Cost
- Free
- Age
- All ages
- Accessibility
- Varies by vessel
- Responsible viewing
- Never touch — endangered under the ESA. Report strandings to NY Marine Rescue (631-369-9829).
- Weather / sea state
- Calm bay conditions.