Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach in South Carolina has a new resident, and she's already stealing hearts! Meet Bandit, a remarkable green sea turtle whose journey to recovery is as inspiring as it is extraordinary.
Bandit was found stranded on Little St. Simons Island, Georgia, in April 2021. She had been injured by a boat propeller, leaving her with partial paralysis and buoyancy issues. Fortunately, she was rescued by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island, where her road to recovery began.
Along the way, Bandit formed a special bond with Kendall Barfield, a young girl from Columbus, Georgia, who symbolically adopted the turtle. Kendall, who has spina bifida, saw a kindred spirit in Bandit, and their connection became a source of inspiration.
Recently, Kendall had the chance to visit Bandit in her new home at Ripley's Marine Science Research Center, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and research of marine species. Accompanied by Ripley's Assistant Director of Husbandry, Stacia White, and Animal Care expert, Alex McMinn, Kendall was thrilled to reunite with Bandit. "I feel like she's getting bigger!" Kendall remarked with joy as she watched Bandit navigate her new environment.
Bandit's resilience is nothing short of amazing. With the help of a specialized weight pouch, she is able to swim comfortably despite her past injuries. Ripley's team demonstrated how they care for Bandit, from using an acrylic orange target for training to conducting regular health exams. And, of course, Bandit enjoyed her favorite treat — green peppers — during the visit.
Ripley's Aquarium is deeply committed to conservation, playing a leading role in efforts to protect endangered species like the green sea turtle. In addition to Bandit's care, Ripley's has made significant strides in marine science, including the world's first successful sand tiger shark birth by artificial insemination in 2021.
Kendall's visit to Ripley's Aquarium highlights the powerful impact that hands-on learning and engaging educational experiences can have on young minds. As her mother, Danielle Barfield, noted, "Seeing Kendall at the Research Center and the Aquarium, surrounded by her passions, it's easy to overlook the daily challenges she faces."
Ripley’s Aquariums strive to provide the highest standard of care for their animals while sparking curiosity, wonder, and a desire to protect the world’s marine life. And now, visitors to Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach have the opportunity to meet Bandit themselves!
With an advanced reservation, guests can join an Animal Care expert for a behind-the-scenes tour of Ripley's Marine Science Research Center, witnessing firsthand the incredible work being done to conserve and protect the species we all cherish.
Interested in meeting Bandit? Ripley’s Marine Science Research Center in Myrtle Beach offers tours where guests can learn about conservation efforts and see how science is making a difference for marine life. Don’t miss your chance to be inspired by Bandit’s incredible journey!
