Cold Stunned Turtles Return to Ocean

After months of dedicated care, 29 sea turtles have been successfully released back into the ocean off North Carolina. The National Aquarium's animal rescue team treated these green and Kemp's ridley turtles, which were initially rescued near Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in December. They were found suffering from cold-stunning due to a rapid temperature drop, leading to multiple medical problems such as infections, dehydration, and injuries.

Their rehabilitation period was extended due to unseasonably cold ocean temperatures, preventing their earlier release. This situation underscores how unpredictable winter weather patterns are increasingly complicating wildlife rescue operations. The aquarium noted similar challenges with its marine mammal stranding season, where animals appeared unusually far south.

Meanwhile, the rescue team also managed seal rescues, including a grey seal pup named Jetty, who was released in early April. Other seals, like a harp seal named Crew and two grey seal pups, Boom and Barge, are currently undergoing treatment and rehabilitation. These efforts are conducted in partnership with organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.