Guayana
- Patient Status
- Current
- Date Found
- August 14, 2024
- Location
- Crystal River; Citrus county
- Reason for Rescue
- Boat strike
Initial Assessment
- Weight
- 4.16 kg (9.2 lbs)
- SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
- 32.5 cm
- Exam Findings
- Good body condition. Injury to the head and carapace. Minor fibropapilloma tumors present.
- Initial Treatment
- Fluids, anti-inflammatory, and wound care
Guayana’s Story
Guayana is a juvenile, sea turtle, who was found floating near Crystal River with injury to their carapace (shell) and head. Guayana has a good body condition and minor fibropapilloma tumors present. They were active and alert at the intake examination. Over the next few days, we will be performing diagnostics to assess the extent of their injuries internally and monitoring their behaviors.
INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Hometowns (Venezuela)
Treatment Updates
- 8.16.24
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Guayana went for a CT scan. There is a portion of the spine and potentially the brain casing affected. We will continue to monitor for any signs of neurological issues.
- 8.19.24
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Guayana was swim tested for the first time. Their activity level was low, and they were placed in a shallow pool. We will gradually increase their swim time and monitor.
- 8.23.24
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Guayana has been in a shallow pool all day. No interest in food yet. We will continue to monitor. A routine bandage change and wound care was performed on carapace and head injuries.
- 9.1.24
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We have started tube feeding to provide nutritional support. Guayana is also on antibiotics and fluid therapy based on recent lab work.
- 9.28.24
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Due to the extensive damage from Hurricane Helene to our life support systems, all our sea turtle patients were transferred to Coastal Stewards to continue out their rehabilitation until our pools are fixed.
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.