Sea Turtle Hospital Patient – Jade - Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Jade

Green, Juvenile (Chelonia mydas)

Patient Status: Released
Date Found: February 13, 2024

Location: Sand Key; Pinellas county

Reason for Rescue: Lethargic

Initial Assessment

Weight: 9.88 kg (21.7 lbs)
SCL (Straight Carapace Length): 44.5 cm
Exam Findings: Good body condition, low body temperature, no obvious external abnormalites.
Initial Treatment: Fluids and vitamins

Jade’s Story

Jade is a juvenile green sea turtle who was found stranded on Sand Key on Feb.13. Jade was lethargic but has relatively good body condition at intake examination. Jade experienced acute hypothermia due to our local cold weather. Jade has no other external abnormalities. Jade’s initial treatment plan consists of vitamins and fluids.

INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Gemstones + Minerals

Treatment Updates

2.16.24: Jade was swim tested for the first time. Jade had minimal activity and struggled to surface for a breath even in a shallow pool. Due to this behavior, Jade’s time in water was short, and we will try again tomorrow.
2.19.24: Jade’s behavior in the water has already improved over the last 2 days. Jade is still not very active but is alert. Jade is showing interest in food.
2.21.24: Jade went for a routine CT scan. Jade is able to be in shallow pool all day and overnight. Continuing to do glucose checks and giving fluids as needed.
3.7.24: Jade started to exhibit neurological behaviors over the last few weeks. Jade has some improvement in their appetite and foraging behaviors and was started on a diet. Jade is currently on antibiotics and fluid therapy.
3.14.24: Jade’s behavior has improved on their current medication plan! We have been slowly reincorporating deep water.
3.17.24: Jade has been in deep water all day and overnight.
3.20.24: Eating well and got a diet increased!
4.16.24: Jade’s recent exam showed they have a thin body condition still. Jade received another diet increase. Jade is on antibiotics, based on recent lab work.
5.7.24: Jade is continuing to gain weight.
6.6.24: Jade is off antibiotics.
6.12.24: Jade has received a clean bill of health from our staff veterinarian!
6.13.24: Jade was released at Honeymoon Island!

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.