Guardian

Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)

Stranding Location: Coast Guard Beach, Dare County, NCArrival Date: 12/13/2010Age: juvenileWeight: 9.66 kg (~21 lb)

Case History

In an effort to help North Carolina facilities overwhelmed by a large number of cold-stunned sea turtles that stranded in early December, nine sea turtles were transferred to the SCA’s Sea Turtle Hospital on 13 December 2010. Guardian, a juvenile 7.1 kg Kemp’s ridley, is one of two Kemp’s ridleys received from NC.

Treatment

Guardian’s heart rate was comparatively strong upon arrival at 36 bpm. This little ridley received a complete physical exam, antibiotics, fluids, and vitamin B complex during admission procedures. S/he initially refused to eat on her own, but we discovered s/he loves mackerel and shrimp and s/he’s been eating well since 19 December.

Updates

15 January 2011: Recent radiographs show that Guardian is currently clear of osteomyelitis, a bone infection we commonly see in ridleys and are currently treating Hyde for. Blood work values are fairly good with the exception of a slightly elevated WBC count.8 February 2011: Guardian’s body condition is excellent, and radiographs today confirmed this turtle is not suffering from osteomyelitis. Guardian is doing well!

Release Date

05/07/2011

Release Location

Ise of Palms County Park, SC