Clearwater Marine Aquarium released Small Fry, a juvenile green sea turtle on Thursday, March 19, 2020, after three months of rehab care.
Lethargic Sea Turtle Rescued Near New Port Richey
Small Fry was found lethargic near New Port Richey in Pasco County on December 11, 2019. Upon initial assessment, Small Fry had a large tumor growing from his left eye, determined to be caused by the fibropapllioma virus. Further evaluation confirmed that Small Fry couldn’t see from that eye. The tumor was so severe that he underwent a procedure to remove his entire left eye, which doesn’t slow him down at all!
Small Fry made a fast recovery and was deemed healthy enough to be released. He has been cleared for release by our veterinarian and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
On March 19, Small Fry was released off the beach at Fred Howard Park with help from CMA staff and volunteers. A group of beachgoers watched as Small Fry made his way back home! We wish him well!
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-19-172.