green (Chelonia mydas)

Stranding Location: Dare County, NC

Arrival Date: 12/28/2009

Age: juvenile

Weight: 4 kg (~ 9 lbs)

Case History

Dare is one of approximately 100 sea turtles that stranded as part of a cold-stunning event in North Carolina over Christmas week. Dare was temporarily held at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center and transported to the South Carolina Aquarium on 28 December 2009 for long term care.

Treatment

Upon arrival at the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Hospital, Dare recieved subcutaneous fluids and vitamins to combat mild dehydration from transport. As Dare’s carapace was ~60% covered in large barnacles, s/he was put in a tank of brackish water to aid in subsequent debriding.

Updates

26 January 2010: Dare appears to have quickly recovered from the cold-stunning event. Radiographs show Dare’s lungs are clear and free of pneumonia, and s/he is active and eating well. The barnacles have caused some minor damage to the carapace, but we are confident these small injuries will heal well. This beautiful little green is already charming hospital visitors with his spunky attitude!

Release Date

05/01/2010

Release Location

Isle of Palms County Park, SC