Gypsum
- Patient Status
- Released
- Date Found
- February 7,2024
- Location
- South Anclote; Pinellas County
- Reason for Rescue
- Lethargic
Initial Assessment
- Weight
- 21.85 kg (48 lbs)
- SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
- 60.8 cm
- Exam Findings
- Large amount of epibiota present on carapace and head, missing right front flipper
- Initial Treatment
- Fluids, antibiotics, and vitamins
Gypsum’s Story
Gypsum is a subadult green sea turtle who was found lethargic near south Anclote in Pinellas county on February 7. Gypsum has a large amount of epibiota (algae and barnacles) on their carapace (shell) and head, which means they have been debilitated for quite some time. Gypsum is also missing their right front flipper, but it is completely healed and unrelated to their cause for stranding. Gypsum’s initial treatment plan consists of fluids, vitamins, and antibiotics.
INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Gemstones + Minerals
Treatment Updates
- 2.9.24
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Gypsum’s first swim test does show floating and lethargy behaviors. We will gradually increase their swim time as they improve.
- 2.12.24
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Gypsum is able to be in water all day and overnight. They are resting on the bottom!
- 2.13.24
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Gypsum’s CT and ultrasound revealed concerning GI abnormalities that could be caused by a foreign body ingestion. We will continue to monitor their appetite and for defecations.
- 3.7.24
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Gypsum is continuing to have a great appetite. Over the last couple of weeks we have been monitoring for defecation. We administered barium and conducted several radio graphs and a recheck CT last week to help us track GI movements. Based on our findings, we have started Gypsum on medications that will assist in GI motility.
- 3.8.24
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Gypsum defecated 230 cm of monofilament! We will continue to monitor.
- 3.20.24
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Gypsum has been defecating regularly over the last week. We are slowly weaning them off GI stimulation medications.
- 4.11.24
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Gypsum has received a clean bill of health from our staff veterinarian.
- 4.18.24
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Gypsum 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.