Challah
- Patient Status
- Released
- Date Found
- December 4, 2023
- Location
- Redington Shores; Pinellas County
- Reason for Rescue
- Predation
Initial Assessment
- Weight
- 3.14 kg (6.9 lbs)
- SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
- 29 cm
- Exam Findings
- Active and good body condition. Semi-circular injuries to carapace and plastron.
- Initial Treatment
- Vitamins, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and fluids
Challah’s Story
Challah is a juvenile green sea turtle who was washed ashore on Redington Shores with predation injuries likely from a shark. Challah overall has a good body condition and no other abnormalities. Initial diagnostics did not show obvious internal damage. Challah’s time in rehab may be lengthly due to the wound care needed for their injuries. Their initial treatment plan consists of fluids, vitamins, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories.
INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Bread and Hanukkah
Treatment Updates
- 12.7.23
-
Challah was placed in water after clearance from CT scan. Challah is doing well their first day in water! Very active and already showed quick interest in food. Challah will be kept in a shallow pool due to their carapace injuries. We will start to incorporate deep water as they heal.
- 12.15.23
-
Challah is able to be in deep water all day and overnight for the last couple of days and is doing great! We will be doing routine wound care and bandage changes 2-3 times a week until further notice.
- 1.4.24
-
Challah’s injuries are healing really well! Challah no longer requires a bandage to cover the injuries. We are continuing to do wound care as need and applying topical treatments.
- 1.12.24
-
- 1.26.24
-
Challah is still on antibiotics. Their injuries are mostly healed. We are hopeful for a release in the near future.
- 2.22.24
-
Challah is off medications!
- 3.20.24
-
Challah went for a recheck CT, no obvious concerns seen!
- 4.11.24
-
Challah has received a clean bill of health for our staff veterinarian.
- 4.18.24
-
Challah 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.