MISSION
All seven species of sea turtles are listed as threatened or endangered. This is a reflection of the growing issues surrounding coastal development and ocean conservation. To help ensure that sea turtles have a future in our oceans, the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center™ aids sick and injured sea turtles in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
 

RESCUE. REHABILITATION. RELEASE.

When a sea turtle is found stranded or injured, SCDNR brings the animal to the Sea Turtle Care Center for treatment. Sea turtles arrive most commonly suffering from debilitated turtle syndrome, shock from being exposed to cold temperatures, or injury from a boat strike or shark bite. Our staff veterinarians diagnose each turtle and work with Care Center staff and volunteers to provide treatments and rehabilitative care. Patients are given IV fluids, antibiotics, vitamins and other medications. Based on the sea turtle’s condition, a variety of procedures may be performed, such as x-rays or ultrasounds. Rehabilitated sea turtles are released home in hopes that they will become reproductive members of the sea turtle population.

A Closer Look at Sea Turtle Recovery

When you walk through Sea Turtle Recovery you’ll experience five main galleries: The Rescue Gallery, The John and Susan Neely Rehabilitation Gallery, The Steve and Emily Swanson Rehabilitation Hospital, The Fran and Dennis Nolan Education Center and The Release Gallery. These galleries contain:

• Upgraded Tanks
• Improved Medical Facility
• Interactive Mock Medical Stations
• Classroom and Object Theater