green (Chelonia mydas)

Stranding Location: Mingo Point, Kiawah Island, SC

Arrival Date: 10/23/2012

Age: juvenile

Weight: 1.9 kg (~4 lb.)

Case History

Inquisitive naturalists from Kiawah Island’s Night Heron Nature Center noticed something small floating in the water around the dock at Mingo Point and, luckily, decided to investigate. The floating object turned out to be a tiny green sea turtle we’ve named “Mini Ming.” Swimming weakly and unable to dive, Mini Ming was rescued from the water and transported to our Sea Turtle Hospital by biologists from SCDNR.

Treatment

Upon arrival, Mini Ming received a full physical examination, which didn’t reveal any external wounds or abnormalities. After blood was drawn, fluids were administered subcutaneously to combat dehydration, and Ming was started on antibiotics. Radiographs showed a GI tract full of food, as well as bone lysis in Ming’s left carpus (wrist), which is concerning.

Updates

29 October 2012: Ming is doing well in a filtered tank of water. Surprisingly, she is neutrally buoyant, which is odd considering she was rescued due to flotation issues. Ming is loving her healthy hospital diet of fish and various veggies, and is passing regular formed fecals.

Release Date

02/15/2013

Release Location

Gulf Stream offshore North Carolina