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Blog & News

Sea Turtle Hospital Patient – Chex

Former Patients Updated August 5, 2018 Posted April 11, 2017

Chex

Juvenile, Green (Chelonia mydas)
Chex sea turtle
Patient Status
Released on May 25, 2017
Date Found
March 20, 2017
Location Found
Redington Beach, Pinellas County, FL
Reason for Rescue:
Found floating

TRIAGE

Weight
1.34 kg
SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
22.8 cm
Exam Findings
Quiet but alert; good body condition. Small amount of algal and barnacle epibiota on the carapace.
Initial Treatment
Received vitamins, antibiotics, and fluids

CHEX’S STORY

Chex, a juvenile green sea turtle, was found floating about 3 miles west of Redington Beach Pier in Pinellas County, Florida on March 20, 2017. The turtle was seen at the water’s surface, struggling to dive. Therefore, Chex was brought to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for triage and treatment.

Sea turtles can be found floating at the surface for various reasons – for example hyperinflation of the lungs, a buildup of gas in the gastro-intestinal tract, or air that’s built up in the turtle’s body cavity just to name a few. X-rays and CT scans can help us determine what’s wrong with the turtle and then create the best possible treatment plan. Caring for turtles like Chex is only possible with your support!

Fun Fact
I have 7 vertebral scutes (plates) on my carapace! Green sea turtles normally only have 5.
chex sea turtle with 7 scutes

TREATMENT UPDATES

3.27.17

Offered solid food and ate everything; increasing amount of swimming time in shallow water

4.4.17

Increasing amount of swimming time in deeper water

4.8.17

Passed a balloon and ribbon through its gastrointestinal tract which it had eaten in the wild.

4.18.17

Chex is cleared for release by both the FWC and our CMA vet.

5.25.17

After 66 days in rehab, Chex was released at Honeymoon Island! We wish Chex the best back out in the ocean!

Previous Post: Inspirational Story – Maddi Meets Winter & Hope
Next Post: Sea Turtle Hospital Patient – Dinky Donuts
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
249 Windward Passage
Clearwater, FL 33767
727-441-1790

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