Hatteras, USA - June 23, 2024

Kemp's ridley sea turtles, the smallest and most endangered sea turtle species globally, are making waves with their unique nesting behavior at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Unlike their counterparts, Kemp's ridleys opt to nest during daylight hours, a rare spectacle in the sea turtle world.

What truly sets them apart is their nesting ritual dubbed the "Kemp's ridley dance." While other sea turtles use their flippers to cover their nests with sand, Kemp's ridleys take a more intricate approach. They incorporate a distinctive side-to-side shuffle atop their nest, a behavior observed recently near Ramp 23 on Hatteras Island.

This video footage, captured on June 23, 2024, marks the northernmost nesting of Kemp's ridley sea turtles ever recorded along the Seashore. The sight not only showcases their nesting habits but also underscores their resilience in the face of endangerment.

Researchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike are captivated by this display of natural behavior, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to protect these remarkable creatures and their nesting grounds.