Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)

Stranding Location: Cherry Grove Pier, a fishing pier in North Myrtle Beach

Arrival Date: June 28, 2016

Age: Juvenile

Weight: 4.5 lbs

Case History

This young turtle was caught by recreational fishermen off of Cherry Grove Pier. Due to the swallowed hook, medical attention and specifically surgery, would be required to remove it. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources was contacted and this little ridley was transported via DNR stranding volunteers to our hospital.

Treatment

Upon arrival, our team transferred “Cherry” to the Animal Medical Facility for an x-ray to get a better visual on the hook. As we suspected, this turtle needed surgery to remove the hook due to its location in the esophagus. Following the administration of anesthesia, our team got to work removing the hook which turned out to be quite stubborn. After much maneuvering by Dr. Boylan, the Aquarium’s veterinarian, the difficult hook was successfully removed! Cherry received support care and antibiotics and will continue to be monitored. She’s also in the midst of a one week fast to let her esophagus heal up a bit.

Release Date

July 29, 2016

Release Location

Isle of Palms County Park