Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)

Stranding Location: Folly Beach, SC
Arrival Date: 7/4/25
Age: Juvenile
Sex: Unknown
Weight: 3.97 kg (8.75 lbs.)

Case History

Sunflower was admitted to the Aquarium after being accidentally hooked by a fisherman at the Folly Beach Pier. Once notified, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) was able to coordinate the sea turtle’s transport to the Aquarium with the help of permitted volunteers.

Treatment

Upon arrival, Sunflower was bright, alert and responsive. We began by taking radiographs to assess the position of the fishhook, followed by bloodwork Sunflower’s overall health. Her/his bloodwork values came back positive, so we sedated Sunflower and began to remove the fishhook under light sedation. This hook was in the very back of the mouth, but the fisherman contacted the proper authorities after catching Sunflower and followed the instructions of leaving a long length of fishing line attached. This is incredibly helpful because we can trace the fishing line straight to the eye of the fishhook. We were able to easily dislodge the fishhook and after waking up from sedation, Sunflower was placed in a tank in our hospital. Although s/he was a little buoyant, Sunflower was swimming well and taking good breaths!

Updates

July 8, 2025: Sunflower has begun eating, but s/he has been quite picky about which species of fish s/he is interested in eating. Sunflower seems to have a preference for shrimp right now, but we will continue to offer a variety of fish each day to expand her/his palate.

August 15, 2025: Earlier this month, Sunflower was tagged! This is a big milestone for this little turtle and means Sunflower is one step closer to release. We are now finishing Sunflower’s prescribed medication treatments, like antibiotics. Once these are completed, we will do some repeat diagnostics to ensure Sunflower is ready to head back out to the ocean!

August 27, 2025: This little Kemp’s was released at Folly Beach County Park! Swim fast, little one!