Initial Assessment
Aspen
- Patient Status
- Released on March 4, 2025
- Date Found
- February 13, 2025
- Location
- Fort De Soto; Pinellas County
- Reason for Rescue
- Washed ashore
- Weight
- 20.76 kg
- SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
- 50.3 cm
- Exam Findings
- Carapace deformity. Algae coverage on majority of carapace. Good body condition.
- Initial Treatment
- Fluids
Aspen’s Story
Aspen is a large, juvenile green sea turtle who was found washed ashore near Fort De Soto on Feb. 13. Aspen has a carapace deformity from a previous traumatic event. Sea turtles with these types of deformities typically have buoyancy issues so we will monitor their swimming behaviors over time. Aspen has a good body condition and received fluid therapy as their initial treatment.
INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Aspen is the first patient on our new naming theme: Trees!
Treatment Updates
- 2.14.25
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On their first swim test, Aspen did exhibit buoyancy issues and had trouble staying submerged. We will continue to monitor.
- 2.17.25
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Aspen went for a routine CT scan. They are starting to show interest in food and able to navigate majority of the water column. They are able to be in a deep water all day and overnight.
- 2.18.25
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Aspen was observed to be resting on the bottom, caudal end up! We will continue to monitor the consistency of their resting on the bottom vs resting at the surface.
- 2.26.25
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Aspen has been consistently resting on the bottom. They have received a clean bill of health from our staff veterinarian!
- 3.4.25
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Aspen was successfully released at Honeymoon Island State Park!
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-23/24-172.