Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)

Stranding Location: Winyah Bay in Georgetown, SC

Arrival Date: 09/22/2008

Age: juvenile

Weight: 5.9 kg

Case History

This turtle was found comatose after being caught in a channel net collecting shrimp in the Winyah Bay. After arriving at the South Carolina Aquarium Turtle Hosital, staff was able to drain a good bit of fluid from the lungs, so it is apparent that the turtle was unable to come to the surface to breathe while being caught in the net.

Treatment

Winyah was started on antibiotics to prevent pneumonia. Although some fluid was drained from the lungs, there is more likely much more that did not drain. This turtle is active and was placed in a filtered tank the day after being admitted. So far there is no interest in eating.

Updates

15 February 2009: Winyah has been eating well for several weeks. A sheepshead was added to his tank for a tank mate. They seem to get along very well;)

4 May 2009: Winyah is a really spunky turtle! He/she still lives in peace with the sheepshead tank mate, although killed several croaker that were added. Winyah just moved out of a shared tank with Wadmalaw and now has his own digs again:)This turtle will be released in mid-summer of this year.

15 July 2009: Winyah is being released with 2 other turtles on Sunday, July 26th at Beachwalker County Park on Kiawah Island. Carpooling is recommended and parking fees apply. Come join us!

Release Date

07/26/2009

Release Location

Beachwalker County Park, Kiawah Island, SC