Why are we in great need?
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a department of the Jekyll Island Authority, is actively involved in rehabilitation of numerous sea turtles, many of which are new “cold-stunned” arrivals due to the prolonged cold weather along the Eastern seaboard. Thousands of turtles have been affected by cold-stunning in recent weeks and treatment facilities are scarce, so the GSTC is working with other agencies and organizations stretching from New England to Florida to treat new patients.
Ten cold-stunned green sea turtles arrived at the GSTC on January 7 for treatment. Eight of these, in addition to two previous cold-stunned turtles from North Carolina and a loggerhead, were released into warmer waters on January 13 after a six-hour drive to Fort Lauderdale, FL. On the same day, the GSTC picked up 12 new green turtles, all cold-stunned in Florida waters. Some of these new arrivals have begun eating and others are slowly adjusting to the new environment.
Currently the GSTC is treating 34 sea turtles, stretching its capacity in terms of space, resources, and personnel to meet the needs of endangered sea turtles and WE NEED YOUR HELP! We are asking for a variety of donations from towels, to medical supplies, to monetary contributions. CLICK HERE to see a list of our much-needed items.
What is cold-stunning?
Cold stunning is similar to hypothermia in humans. As reptiles, sea turtles are ecothermic (cold-blooded) meaning they rely on their surroundings to generate heat. When the water temperatures fall, so do their body temperatures. As a turtle’s body temperature drops to 50 - 60 degrees F, its metabolism slows down and compromises its ability to swim, eat, and perform other necessary bodily functions. Some species, such as green sea turtles, are more susceptible than others to these changes, and the sudden drop in temperatures makes it more difficult for their systems to adjust. In this cold-induced lethargic state, its immune system is suppressed, making it susceptible to other short- and long-term problems such as dehydration, infection, diseases and pneumonia. Cold-stunned turtles become immobilized and float to the surface where they may become boat-strike victims or preyed upon, float in a debilitated state until they can’t survive, or wash up on shore and exposed to colder air temperatures where their survival is jeopardized.
How are cold-stunned turtles treated?
Treatment is dependant upon how seriously the turtle is affected by the cold-stunning as well as other ailments. Turtles must be slowly re-warmed (4-5 degrees F per day), their blood work analyzed, rehydrated, treated as necessary for secondary problems with antibiotics or supplements, and monitored for additional problems that may arise over time. Of course, their diet must be controlled and other health factors examined periodically.
Can cold-stunned turtles be released?
Once sea turtles are healthy, it is preferable to return them to the ocean. They are wild animals, not pets, and will survive best if returned to their natural environment. Release of turtles cannot occur until both the turtle is healthy and the water conditions are favorable (mid-60 degrees as a minimum). Favorable weather and water conditions may not occur for several months, depending upon the location of the turtle’s release.
Thank you for your assistance and support!
Sincerely,
Jim Squires, Ph.D.
General Manager
