Green (Chelonia mydas)
Stranding Location: Cape Cod Bay, MA
Arrival Date: 11/27/22
Age: Juvenile
Weight: 3.4 kg (7.48 lbs)
Case History
This turtle is one of many that stranded up in the New England area due to cold stunning, the sea turtle equivalent of hypothermia. New England Aquarium admits hundreds of turtles during the colder winter months; this year, we were able to take in 15 of these turtles to help lighten their load. We coordinate with New England Aquarium and a non-profit called Turtles Fly Too to transport the turtles here. Many thanks to pilot Steve Bernstein and his son Owen for flying them from New England down to Charleston!
Treatment
Mars had a strong heart rate and good respirations on admit. Their exam showed us that they had small lacerations and ulcers on both of their eyes. It was decided to treat this with eye drops for several days. Other findings were that they had a small cloacal prolapse, pneumonia and that they appeared to be stressed (slightly more than we normally see). Based on all of these findings, they were started on fluids and antibiotics. Even though Mars was presenting with these issues, it was decided that they would likely be more comfortable in water. They showed us that they remembered how to be a turtle and were swimming throughout the entire tank with ease!
Update
December 15, 2022: Mars started eating for staff very quickly, which we loved to see! They also did a great job with their daily eye drops and have since finished this treatment. Both of their eyes have cleared up nicely! They will be finishing up their antibiotics towards the end of the month.
January 15, 2023: Mars is doing swimmingly since our last update! They have been moved up to Tank 1 in Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery™! Mars is no longer receiving antibiotics and is eating really well. They are often observed camouflaging in their sea grass enrichment, so be sure to swing by Tank 1 to sea them there!
February 15, 2023: This little green was able to make a quick recovery in rehab! Based on bloodwork, a physical exam and many other bench marks, it was decided that it was time for Pisces to go home! They made the trek down to Little Talbot Island State Park in Jacksonville, Florida to be released in warmer waters along with eight of their turtle friends. Wish them luck out in the big blue!