The Olive Ridley Turtle was listed endangered on July 28, 1978 and they are decreasing. Their current estimated population is unknown. Since they continue to exist in large nesting, they are considered to be the most abundant sea turtle species in the world. However, evidence has shown that their population is declining. At some undisturbed beaches, such as Santa Rosa National Park in Costa Rica, only 5% of the eggs laid hatch.

Olive Ridley Turtle populations in the western Atlantic are very low and continue to decline. It is almost certainly a result of a long-standing capturing.

The Olive Ridley is the smallest among sea turtles. They are named for their olive color, heart-shaped shell. The species may be identified by the uniquely high number of vertebral and costal scutes. Nesting females range from 23 - 30 inches (58-78cm) in length and have a relatively large smooth head when compared to the loggerheads'.