17 Endangered Sea Turtles Released After Rehab by New England Aquarium
Cape Cod, MA – In a heartwarming display of conservation success, the New England aquarium released 17 endangered sea turtles back into the ocean on Wednesday morning [[1]]. The release,which took place at West Dennis Beach into Nantucket Sound,marks a meaningful milestone in the aquarium’s ongoing sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
A Diverse group Returns to the Wild
The released group comprised nine Kemp’s ridleys,five loggerheads,and three green sea turtles – all species facing significant threats to thier populations. These turtles were rescued during the winter months, a period when cold-stunned turtles frequently wash ashore on Cape Cod beaches [[1]].
Battling Hypothermia and Life-Threatening Conditions
The New England Aquarium’s sea turtle hospital in Quincy provided months of intensive care to the turtles, treating conditions such as hypothermia, pneumonia, dehydration, and trauma [[1]]. This past winter, a staggering 518 turtles were rescued by aquarium staff and volunteers [[1]].
Release Criteria & Ongoing Efforts
Turtles are only released when they are deemed fully healthy and the water temperature reaches at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit [[1]]. Adam Kennedy, Director of Rescue and Rehabilitation at the Aquarium, emphasized the importance of this work, stating, “We dedicate months to the turtles’ recovery and take pride in seeing them return to the waters off Cape Cod.” [[1]]. the Aquarium’s conservation and research efforts play a crucial role in supporting these vulnerable species.
Further Reading: The New England Aquarium is currently treating over 200 cold-stunned sea turtles [[2]], and relies on donor support to continue its vital work.
