Ludwig
- Patient Status
- Released March 31, 2021
- Date Found
- February 2, 2021
- Location
- Indian Rocks Beach; Pinellas County
- Reason for Rescue
- Stranded on beach; lethargic
Initial Assessment
- Weight
- 1.84 kg (4.05 lbs)
- SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
- 25.2 cm
- Exam Findings
- Stranded on beach; lethargic.
- Initial Treatment
- Received vitamins, antibiotics & fluids.
Ludwig’s Story
Ludwig is a juvenile, green sea turtle who was found washed ashore on Indian Rocks Beach on February 2, 2021 with a low body temperature. It was also observed at Ludwig’s intake, that he had a cloacal impaction. The impaction was consistent with seagrass material and the majority was able to be removed. We will be monitoring Ludwig’s defecations for the next several days. Ludwig’s initial treatment consists of vitamin injections, antibiotics, and fluids.
Treatment Updates
- 2.4.21
-
Ludwig was placed in water for a swim test. Due to his lethargy and floating, he was placed in a kiddie pool to help him achieve good breaths. We will continue to increase his swim time as he improves!
We are continuing to do glucose checks and give fluids if needed.
- 2.6.21
-
Ludwig has started to show interest in food and will be started on a diet!
- 2.19.21
-
Ludwig is able to be in deep water all day and overnight. He is continuing to eat well!
A colonscopy was performed to check for anything concerning as a result of his impaction. Ludwig did well!
- 3.14.21
-
Ludwig is gaining weight and eating well!
His cloacal impaction has significantly improved over the last month.
- 3.31.21
-
Ludwig was released at Morgan Beach Park!
Learn more about Ludwig’s 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-19-172.