A critically endangered Kemp’s ridley turtle was rescued from a Texas beach and is receiving treatment.

A critically endangered adult female Kemp’s ridley sea turtle was found stranded on a Galveston, Texas beach on March 7, 2026, severely weakened and covered in barnacles, algae, and sediment. Rescuers from the Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research responded, transporting the turtle to a rehabilitation facility for intensive care, including antibiotics, pain management, and daily monitoring. Though still in critical condition, the turtle has shown early signs of improvement. Officials urge the public to report strandings immediately via the 1-866-TURTLE-5 hotline, especially during the nesting season from April 1 to July 15, and to support recovery efforts through donations or the GCSTR Amazon wish list.