Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)

Stranding Location: Myrtle Beach, SC
Arrival Date: 8/13/24
Age: Juvenile
Sex: Unknown
Weight: 3.84 kg (8.47 lbs)

Case History

This juvenile Kemp’s ridley was hooked by a fisherman at the Myrtle Beach State Park Fishing Pier. Many thanks to the ranger and responders who ensured the fishing line was not cut too short and secured it properly to Loaf’s carapace and to the permitted transporters who brought Loaf to the Aquarium.

Treatment

Upon admit, the patient was bright, alert and responsive but had raspy breathing. In addition to the swallowed hook, there were also signs of previous entanglement wounds to the left flipper. We took radiographs to determine the size and positioning of the swallowed hook and were surprised to find that two hooks had been swallowed! One was caught in the back of the mouth, and the other was further down in the lower esophagus. A blood sample was taken to determine if Loaf was healthy enough to be sedated for oral hook removal, and luckily the values were within normal limits. It took a little over an hour, but both hooks were successfully removed and once Loaf was awake again, s/he was placed in a tank with shallow water to recover overnight.

Updates

August 15, 2024: In the days following admit, Loaf has proven to be a strong swimmer and will begin to receive water depth increases soon! Additionally, Loaf has begun defecating regularly which is a great sign of a healthy gut!

September 15, 2024: Over the last month, Loaf’s condition has continued to concern us and diagnostic tests revealed a probable lung infection and other concerning blood values. We performed a bronchoscopy to visually evaluate the lungs and collect a sample of fluid to evaluate the best treatment plan. Based on the results of these tests, we have started a nebulization treatment every day which deposits the medication directly into the lung tissue. Bloodwork also indicated that Loaf was very dehydrated so we have restarted fluid therapy. Loaf is definitely one sick turtle and we are providing a thorough treatment plan and supportive care to give her/him the best chance at survival. Send all your healing thoughts to Loaf!