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Olive ridley sea turtle nesting in California

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2026-09-24 19:12 UTC → 2026-09-25 02:21 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Olive ridley sea turtles, a species typically inhabiting tropical waters, have been documented nesting on the U.S. West Coast for the first time in recorded history. Two distinct ~~turtles~~ females were identified in Orange County, California, with nests located near the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge and the Huntington Beach Pier. While experts initially suspected the sightings involved a single turtle, analysis of shell patterns and body shapes confirmed they were two different individuals. Wildlife officials and NOAA Fisheries are monitoring the sites, which have been fenced to protect the eggs. Each nest is estimated to contain between 50 and 100 eggs. Experts noted that the turtles exhibited unusual daytime nesting behavior near sunset. Scientists are investigating whether this event is a temporary anomaly or a long-term range expansion. Current research suggests that a strong El Niño pattern and increased ocean temperatures may have driven the species into Southern California waters. Local experts noted that similar, though unconfirmed, egg discoveries may have occurred in the region as far back as 2020.

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