Rescue Mission: Cold-Stunned Sea Turtles Rehabilitated in Florida

Two dozen Kemp's ridley sea turtles are recovering in Florida after being affected by cold stunning off Cape Cod. The Loggerhead Marinelife Centre, with the help of nonprofit LightHawk, is rehabilitating the turtles. These critically ill turtles, impacted by frigid waters, receive extensive treatment before their spring release.

Two dozen endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtles are undergoing rehabilitation at the Loggerhead Marinelife Centre in Juno Beach, Florida, after battling the icy waters off Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Affected by frostbite, pneumonia, and abrasions, these turtles were flown to Florida by the nonprofit organisation, LightHawk, on December 9.

The turtles are victims of a phenomenon known as cold stunning, where, amid plummeting ocean temperatures, the cold-blooded creatures become lethargic and lose mobility. Loggerhead's chief science officer, Heather Barron, highlights the extensive treatments involving antibiotics, fluids, and nebulization designed to heal the turtles.

Overcrowding in the New England Aquarium prompted the transfer of turtles to Florida. This ensures space for additional turtle rescues. As they prepare for their spring release, the Loggerhead team names the turtles after Greek mythological figures like Pandora and Gaia, embodying their resilience.

(With inputs from agencies.)