What type of sea turtle was found in Scotland?

The Kemp's Ridley turtle, one of the rarest sea turtles in the world, was found on the Isle of Tiree in Scotland.

How did the Kemp's Ridley turtle end up in Scotland?

The turtle was believed to have been blown off course by the strong winds from Storm Amy, crossing the entire North Atlantic Ocean before being found.

Where are Kemp's Ridley turtles normally found?

Kemp's Ridley turtles are typically found off the coasts of the United States and Mexico, making their appearance in Scotland highly unusual.

Home / Environment / Rare Sea Turtle Rescued from Scottish Beach, Thousands of Miles from Home

Rare Sea Turtle Rescued from Scottish Beach, Thousands of Miles from Home

22 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Kemp's Ridley turtle, one of the rarest sea turtles, found on Scottish beach
Turtle rescued from Isle of Tiree, over 3,000 miles from its natural habitat
Believed to have been blown off course by strong winds from Storm Amy

Rare Sea Turtle Rescued from Scottish Beach, Thousands of Miles from Home

On October 22nd, 2025, a rare Kemp's Ridley sea turtle was rescued from the shores of the Isle of Tiree in Scotland, over 3,000 miles away from its natural habitat off the east coast of the United States and Mexico. The critically endangered turtle, one of the rarest in the world, was found in a state of shock from the icy Scottish waters.

According to Hayley Douglas, an Isle of Tiree ranger, the turtle was likely blown off course by the strong winds from Storm Amy. Douglas immediately responded to the emergency call and took the turtle home to slowly warm it up, cautious not to send the animal into further shock.