Kemps Ridley Sea Turtle stranding on Cherry Grove Pier

 What a happy outcome for this endangered Kemps Ridley Sea Turtle.  Many times, when a Sea Turtle is hooked with hook and line, they are often transported the Sea Turtle care center by a trained and permitted Transporter.  Often even when hooked, underlining medical conditions are found while they are in the care of the Sea Turtle Care center.  They will then get the best care until they are ready to be released.

Working with SCDNR they will work with the permitted NMB STP Volunteers to access the Sea Turtle and plan for the next steps, whether it be transporting to the care center for more care and hook removal or if the Sea Turtle looked well and can be released back into the Ocean.  Many things will be looked at, such as the overall body conditions, any other signs of injuries or not being well.  Pictures and conversations between as the permitted Volunteers and SCDNR as they are the first eyes and such things like the activity level can be relayed.  

After getting the ok, as all looked good, a superficial hook that actually fell out as it was being examined. no other hooks or line visible in the mouth.

Many thanks to the Cherry Grove Fishing Pier personal, along with the fisherman doing everything right.  Cherry Grove Fishing Pier Has a drop net especially made to bring up Sea Turtles, so no other injuries are sustained while he/she is brought up to the pier.

  If a Sea Turtle is brought up by hook and line, the weight of their bodies could cause the internal organs to be damaged and could result in its death. 

  The Cherry Grove Fishing Pier will keep the Sea Turtle in a quiet place until the NMB STP Arrive, the less stress the better for his/her health and recovery.  

Measurements and body condition are all quickly documented, this information will be entered into a national data base, that will be used by many to help with the future conservation to help save the endangered Sea Turtle species.

The Kemps Ridley is calmly released further away from the pier under SCDNR regulations and permits. 

Good Luck and happy swimming.

Hoping you stay away from the piers

All Sea Turtles are endangered; they are federally, and state protected.  Special Training, guidelines and permits are required to work with Nesting Sea Turtles, Hatchlings, Nest and Stranded or accidentally hooked Sea Turtles.

If you encounter a Nesting Sea Turtle, Hatchling or stranded or accidentally caught on hook and line in NMB or Briarcliffe area please call

NMB STP HOTLINE

843-213-9074

ANYTIME DAY OR NIGHT