Clearwater Marine Aquarium released six Kemp’s ridley sea turtles and green sea turtles, Xander and Iggy, on January 19 and 20, 2022.
Kemp’s Ridley Story – Sea Turtles
On December 10, 2021, Clearwater Marine Aquarium received eight juvenile Kemp’s ridley transfers from New England Aquarium. These turtles were part of a mass cold-stun event in Cape Cod Massachusetts. Cold stunning can lead to decreased circulation, lethargy, and hypothermic conditions. The Kemp’s ridleys received lots of vitamins, antibiotics, and fluids to help with recovery.
After lots of care by our Sea Turtle Rehab Team, six of these Kemp’s ridleys were cleared for release by our veterinarian and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission! These Kemp’s were released on January 19, 2022.
Iggy’s Story – Green Sea Turtle
Iggy is a juvenile, green sea turtle who was found entangled near Daytona Beach in Volusia County and suffered from a heavy pap tumor load on both eyes and flippers. Iggy was transferred to CMA from Volusia County Marine Science Center on September 21, 2021, as we are able to care for patients with pap tumors.
Iggy recovered quickly as he underwent successful surgery. Iggy’s appetite has also improved and was cleared for release by our veterinarian and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This green sea turtle was released on January 19, 2022.
Xander’s Story – Green Sea Turtle
Xander is a juvenile, green sea turtle who was found entangled in a fishing line near Anchlote Key on July 16, 2021. Upon rescue, it was also discovered that Xander was also dragging a fishing pole. Fortunately, all fishing line was removed from around his neck and both front flippers. Xander’s initial treatment consisted of vitamin injections and fluids.
Xander underwent a pap removal surgery to address areas of regrowth. He recovered well, gained appetite, and was placed on oral antibiotics and antifungals. He was cleared for release by our veterinarian and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
On January 19 and 20, Kemp’s Ridley, Xander, and Iggy were released at various locations including Honeymoon Island and a beach in Flagler County! We wish them all the best as they make their way back home!
All marine turtle footage taken in Florida was obtained with the approval of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) under conditions not harmful to marine turtles. Footage was acquired while conducting authorized conservation activities pursuant to FWC MTP-21/22-172.