SeaWorld Returned Three Sea Turtles This Morning

June 27, 2013 (Orlando, Florida) – Three Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles were returned to Playalinda Beach at Canaveral National Seashore in Titusville on Florida’s central east coast, this morning after rehabilitating at SeaWorld Orlando for several months. The sea turtles were part of 36 brought to SeaWorld Orlando on December 23, 2012, by the U.S. Coast Guard, after being rescued from cold stress just off the coast of Cape Cod, Mass. Due to the effects of cold stress, two of the turtles developed pneumonia and the third had small wounds to its carapace. As of today, 34 of the 36 sea turtles have been returned.

The Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles measured approximately 70 inches in length and weighed 7 – 10 pounds, all gaining approximately 3-6 pounds while in SeaWorld’s care. After being medically cleared for today’s return, the park’s Animal Rescue Team transported the turtles to Playalinda Beach at Florida’s Canaveral National Seashore.

In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the waters. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need - ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned - for more than four decades.

So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 45 sea turtles and returned 35. If you see an injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

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