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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 – Pebbles

Former Patients Posted April 16, 2019

Pebbles, Kemp's ridley

Pebbles

Juvenile, Kemp’s Ridley (Lepidochelys kempii)
Pebbles, Kemp's ridley
Patient Status
Released on April 4, 2019
Date Found
March 23, 2019
Location
Offshore of Cedar Key; Levy County
Reason for Rescue
Caught by a fisherman and ingested the hook

Triage

Weight
2.39 kg (5.26 lbs)
SCP (Straight Carapace Length)
25.8 cm
Exam Findings
Very active and good body condition. Fish hook is visible to the eye with fishing line still attached.
Initial Treatment
Fluids, anti-inflammatory medication and vitamins.

Pebbles’ Story

Pebbles is a juvenile, Kemp’s ridley who was caught by a fisherman offshore of Cedar Key on March 23. The fishing line was not cut and was taped to the carapace to prevent further ingestion of the hook. X-rays revealed it was not too far down the esophagus and could be removed without surgery. Pebbles was given fluids, anti-inflammatory medication and vitamins as initial treatment.

Naming Theme
Cartoons
Interesting Fact
This is actually the 2nd sea turtle patient we’ve had named Pebbles! In 2017, a green sea turtle was rescued and named (Fruity) Pebbles as part of the cereal naming theme during that time.

TREATMENT UPDATES

3.24.19

Fish hook was successfully removed without surgery!

3.30.19

Eating great and recovering well!

4.4.19

Released at Fred Howard 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-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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