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