South Carolina Aquarium Releases Four Rehabilitated Sea Turtles

The South Carolina Aquarium has released four rehabilitated sea turtles after months of recovery. The release included three green sea turtles and one Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, marking what could be the last local release of the year.

Three of the four turtles were found with gastrointestinal issues. They have since recovered and are now ready for their journey back into the wild.

Biscuit, the first of the green sea turtles, was found in North Myrtle Beach. It washed ashore lethargic, emaciated, and covered in barnacles and algae. Biscuit’s flipper was covered in lesions and partially dislocated, indicating it had been sick for quite some time.

Debby, another green sea turtle, was discovered on Hilton Head Island during Tropical Storm Debby, which led to its name. This turtle also had barnacles and algae, along with buoyancy issues caused by a long piece of ribbon lodged in its stomach. Fortunately, Debby eventually passed the ribbon and returned to normal, ready for release.

The final green sea turtle, Grits, was found floating in Shem Creek. Grits had a heavy load of algae and seaweed, as well as a shell fracture. After receiving antibiotics and fluids, Grits made a full recovery.

Yogurt, the only Kemp’s ridley sea turtle among them, was accidentally caught by a fisherman off the Cherry Grove Pier in North Myrtle Beach. After being lightly sedated, aquarium staff were able to remove the hook from its upper esophagus without complications.

These releases are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the South Carolina Aquarium’s rehabilitation team. Each turtle’s journey back to health was filled with challenges, but all four were finally ready to return to their ocean home. The release serves as a hopeful reminder of the importance of protecting sea turtles and supporting their rehabilitation efforts.