Folly Beach, S.C. – Cheers and applause filled the air Wednesday as five juvenile Kemp’s ridley sea turtles returned to the ocean after months of rehabilitation at the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Care Center.
The turtles—Seashore Mallow, Sunflower, Marigold, Hyacinth, and Sweet Caroline—were all accidentally hooked by fishermen off the South Carolina coast earlier this summer. After treatment and care, they were strong enough to make their journey back home to the sea.
A Special Release Day
Dozens of supporters gathered on the sand to watch the release, with families and children joining in the celebration.
“It was a little more intimate,” said Lindsey Wanstreet, a James Island resident who attended. “Last time there were a ton of people, but I think this one was special because a lot of people were at work or school.”
For some, the day was especially memorable. Jennifer Edwardson, whose daughter participated in the release, shared:
“It was awesome—the aquarium asked Haddie to participate and it’s the first time she’s ever got to do something like this.”
Biologists Reflect on Conservation Work
Ashley Wright, a sea turtle biologist with the aquarium, explained the importance of public releases:
“This is the whole point, being able to send these sea turtles back to the ocean and getting everybody super excited and passionate about sea turtle conservation.”
She added that each release feels just as emotional as the last:
“Every release is always as special as the one before. Definitely got a little teary-eyed today.”
About the Sea Turtle Care Center
The South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Care Center functions as both a working animal hospital and an educational space where guests can see turtles in recovery.
In 2025, the center has admitted 33 turtles and released 31 so far.
The team uses diagnostic tools, careful procedures, and tailored nutrition plans to ensure each turtle recovers.
Meet the Released Turtles
Seashore Mallow – Had a fishhook deep in the esophagus, removed under light sedation; treated with fluids and antibiotics.
Sunflower – Hook removed by carefully following the fishing line; known for being a “picky eater” who preferred shrimp.
Marigold – Recovered from a hook removal in the esophagus; gained healthy weight in the Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery™ area.
Hyacinth – Hook removed through the mouth, followed by antibiotics and rest.
Sweet Caroline – Treated for a mouth injury and built up strength before being cleared for release.
From delicate medical procedures to months of careful recovery, the successful release of five young Kemp’s ridley sea turtles is a testament to the dedication of the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Care Center. For the crowd at Folly Beach, watching the turtles return to the waves was not only a joyful sight but also a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting marine life along the Lowcountry coast.
