Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)

Stranding Location: Myrtle Beach, SC
Arrival Date: 4/22/2025
Age: Juvenile
Sex: Unknown
Weight: 5.65 kg (12.43 lbs.)

Case History

Zinnia was accidentally hooked by a fisherman at the Myrtle Beach State Park Pier. Once notified, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) was able to coordinate the transport of Zinnia with the help of a permitted volunteer to the Aquarium.

Treatment

Upon arrival Zinnia was bright and alert. During transport to the Aquarium the fish hook had been dislodged and came right out! We captured a radiograph upon admit to check for other fish hooks, just in case! We completed a physical exam and found some superficial bruising on her/his plastron (belly shell) and no more fish hooks. Overall, Zinnia was a healthy turtle. In addition to the physical exam, we drew blood and administered an antibiotic, vitamins and fluids. Zinnia was alert and healthy so we placed her/him in a full tank of water!

Updates

April 27, 2025: Zinnia is still bright, alert and feisty! S/he remains in a full tank of water and is navigating the tank easily. After a few days of offering various food items to figure out what Zinnia preferred to eat, s/he began eating shrimp. We will continue to increase Zinnia’s diet and administer antibiotics while Zinnia heals.