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Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working animal hospital dedicated to the rescue. rehabilitation, and release of marine life and a leader in research and conservation efforts to protect animals in the wild. Donate to support our mission today!

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Blog & News

Sea Turtle Hospital Patient – Chicago

Released Animals Posted June 28, 2024

Chicago

Green, Juvenile (Chelonia mydas)
Patient Status
Released
Date Found
June 13, 2024
Location
Taylor county
Reason for Rescue
Entanglement and fishing line ingestion

Initial Assessment

Weight
17.92 kg (39 lbs)
SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
51.7 cm
Exam Findings
Good body condition. Fishing line coming out of mouth. No external abnormalities.
Initial Treatment
Fluids

Chicago’s Story

Chicago is a juvenile, green sea turtle who was found offshore near Taylor county entangled in fishing line and additionally ingested the line offshore. There was a small hook that was attached to the fishing line that was embedded in tissue of the left front flipper. They have a minor case of fibropapilloma tumors and are otherwise in great body condition. An endoscopy was performed to help visualize the fishing line, and our vet team was able to remove the line during the endoscopy! We are hopeful for a quick turnaround!

INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Hometowns of rehab team (Chicago, IL)

Treatment Updates

6.14.24

Chicago is doing well in water.

6.19.24

Chicago has received a clean bill of health from our staff veterinarian.

6.24.24

Chicago was successfully released in Cedar Key with the assistance of UF!


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.

Previous Post: Manatee Tracking – Yearwood
Next Post: Sea Turtle Hospital Patient – Austin

We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium
249 Windward Passage
Clearwater, FL 33767
727-441-1790

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