Sourdough
- Patient Status
- Released
- Date Found
- October 9, 2023
- Location
- Holiday, FL; Pasco County
- Reason for Rescue
- Washed ashore in a Duke Energy Power Plant
Initial Assessment
- Weight
- 21.2 kg (46.6 lbs)
- SCL (Straight Carapace Length)
- 50.4 cm
- Exam Findings
- Active, good body condition, There is a deformity to the carapace that creates a “hump-like” appearance
- Initial Treatment
- Vitamins and fluids
Sourdough’s Story
Sourdough is a large, juvenile green sea turtle who was found washed ashore at a Duke Energy Power Plant in Holiday, FL on October 9. Sourdough does have a deformity to their carapace (shell) that creates a “hump-like” appearance. This could have been caused potentially by some sort of trauma as there is an old injury visible that is healed. Sea turtles with these types of defomities typically have buoyancy issues so we will monitor their swimming behaviors over time.
INTERESTING FACT: Naming theme: Bread
Treatment Updates
- 10.11.23
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Sourdough was swim tested for the first time and buoyancy behaviors were observed. They are unable to stay submerged when diving. We will continue to monitor. Sourdough is showing interest in food. Their overall activity level is good and were able to be in deep water all day and overnight.
- 10.13.23
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Sourdough went for a routine CT scan. There is gastrointestinal gas observed and abnormalities seen to the spine where the deformity is.
- 10.18.23
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Sourdough has started on medications to aid in GI issues.
- 10.20.23
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Sourdough is able to rest on the bottom, caudal end up!
- 10.30.23
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Sourdough was transferred to Florida Aquarium for a deep water swim trial to assess their potential buoyancy disorder.
- 11.13.23
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Sourdough has returned for their deep water swim trial. Sourdough was able to dive and forage consistently in 15 feet depth with no issues! Sourdough has received a clean bill of health from our staff veterinarian.
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.