Endangered Kemps Ridley Stranding # 13

 Kemps Ridleys are the most endangered and smallest Sea Turtle of all.  Today's stranding has been taken to the SC Aquarium, the Sea Turtle Care Center.

We are unable to tell if a Sea Turtle is male or female until they reach adulthood.  This little Sea Turtle has been named Butter by the Aquarium.

A call coming in from the Cherry Grove Pier in NMB.  It was hooked on a line by a fisherman.  There were many people surrounding it, so was brought inside by the Pier, kept quiet until the permitted NMB STP Standing team arrived.  Calls are made to DNR, the aquarium is closed for the night, so this endangered little Kemps Ridley will be transported first thing in the morning.

A wet cloth is put over the carapace, until it reaches the aquarium.

 

Measurements are taken, and an overall body condition is checked out.  All of this information will be given the Aquarium so they will be able to have things in place to help this Kemps Ridley as soon as he/she arrives.

This picture of the Plastron shows teeth marks of a predator attack that is healing.

The fisherman was unaware they should leave at least 18 inches of line. It is recommended to leave at least 18 inches of line when cutting it. This will give the Aquarium something to work with and also allow for the line to be secured to the Carapace it doesn't get pulled on.

Any pulling could cause damage to internal organs.

A little extra was added to the hole on the line so the hook would not move and do anymore damage.

The aquarium did surgery on the Kemps soon after he/she arrived at the Hospital and is reported as doing good. 

All Sea Turtles are endangered, they are federally, and state protected, special guidelines, training and permits are required to work with Nesting Sea Turtles, Nest, Hatchlings and Standings.

If you are in the NMB or Briarcliffe areas and encounter a Nesting Sea Turtle, Hatchling or stranding please call:

NMB STP HOTLINE

843-213-9074

ANY TIME DAY OR NIGHT