Loggerhead (Caretta caretta)

Stranding Location: Ocracoke Island, NC

Arrival Date: 02/11/2010

Age: juvenile

Weight: ~ 65 lbs

Case History

NC experienced another sea turtle cold-stunning event during the weekend of February 6-8. Unfortunately, many of the animals died as a result. This loggerhead is one of 20 lucky sea turtles to make it to the Karen Beasley Rescue and Rehabilitation Center for initial treatment from Jean and her crew. The turtle was then transported to the South Carolina Aquarium to continue treatment until it comes time for release. The internal body temperature of this animal upon stranding was 51 degrees F.

Treatment

Initial treatments include fluids, antibiotics and radiographs. Radiographs show signs of gas in the intestines. “Beasley” is very active and eating live blue crabs eagerly (1 per day). It is likely that the decreased GI motility from the cold-stunning allowed some bacterial fermentation which made the gas.

Release Date

05/01/2010

Release Location

Isle of Palms County Park, SC