Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)
Stranding Location: Apache Pier, a fishing pier in Myrtle Beach
Arrival Date: June 19, 2016
Age: Juvenile
Weight: 3.8 lbs
Case History
This Kemp’s ridley was caught on Father’s Day by a recreational fishermen on Apache Pier in Myrtle Beach. New management at Apache Pier is doing a great job educating fishermen on what to do if sea turtles are caught on their lines. Since this little ridley had swallowed the hook, medical attention would be required to safely remove it from the esophagus. The SC Department of Natural Resources was contacted and Linda Mataya, a SCDNR nesting and stranding volunteer, transported the endangered sea turtle to our Sea Turtle Hospital.
Treatment
Upon arrival, our team transferred this little turtle we’ve named “Apache” to the Animal Medical Facility for an x-ray in order to visualize the hook in the turtle’s throat. Unfortunately, the hook was lodged in the turtle’s esophagus and, due to the location, surgery was necessary. The procedure went smoothly and Apache was given supportive care during recovery. Additionally, our team was excited to discover that, with the exception of the hook, this animal was in pretty good health!
Release Date
June 22, 2016
Release Location
Folly Beach County Park