green (Chelonia mydas)

Stranding Location: Frisco, NC

Arrival Date: 12/28/2009

Age: juvenile

Weight: 3 kg (~ 6.6 lbs)

Case History

Frisco is one of approximately 100 sea turtles that stranded in a cold-stunning event off the coast of North Carolina during the week of Christmas. Sea turtles are cold-blooded reptiles that cannot regulate their body temperature, so sudden drops in coastal water temperatures can cause sea turtles to become lethargic and suffer various ailments including hypothermia, pneumonia and skin lesions.

Treatment

Upon arrival, Frisco recieved subcutaneous fluids and vitamins to aid in rehydration and was placed in a shallow pool of brackish water. The NC rehab facility started Frisco on antibiotics to prevent the onset of pneumonia, so Frisco’s antibiotic regimen will continue under our care.

Updates

26 January 2010: Frisco enjoys swimming in his large tank and is active and eating well. The barnacles that were attached to his head and carapace have been removed, and his shell is slowly healing from minor damage caused by these epibionts.

Release Date

05/01/2010

Release Location

Isle of Palms County Park, SC