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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 – Isurus

Released Animals Former Patients Updated July 3, 2020 Posted June 26, 2020

Isurus

Juvenile, Kemp's ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)
Sea Turtle
Patient Status
Released on July 2, 2020
Date Found
June 16, 2020
Location
Cedar Key; Levy County
Reason for Rescue
Caught by fisherman; hook ingestion

Initial Assessment

Weight
3.3 kg (7.3 lbs)
SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
28.8 cm
Exam Findings
Good body condition, alert & responsive; “J” hook visible in esophagus after radiographs were performed
Initial Treatment
Received vitamins, fluids and anti-inflammatory medications

Isurus Story

Isurus is a juvenile, Kemp’s ridley, from the Cedar Key area, who was accidentally caught by a fisherman and ingested a fish hook. Upon intake, the hook was not visible in the mouth by veterinary staff. After radiographs were performed, the hook was found deep in the esophagus. The hook was successfully removed by performing an endoscopy and without the need for surgery! We are hopeful for a quick recovery!

Interesting Fact: Isurus is named after a genus of sharks! More commonly known as ‘mako sharks’.

Treatment Updates

6.18.20

Isurus is recovering well after surgery and spent half of the day in water! He is doing well!

6.19.20

He ate for the first time. We are continuing to do glucose checks and are giving him fluids as needed.

6.21.20

Isurus was started on a diet and is eating well!

7.2.20

Isurus was released at Cedar Key!

Read more about Isurus’ release.


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-18-172.

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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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