SeaWorld's Rescue Team Returns Loggerhead Sea Turtle

Yesterday morning, the SeaWorld Orlando Animal Rescue Team returned a sub-adult loggerhead sea turtle to the Florida waters at Canaveral National Seashore following months of treatment and rehabilitation at SeaWorld Orlando. The loggerhead sea turtle was rescued in April 2014 by the Sea Turtle Preservation Society after being discovered on the beach emaciated and covered in barnacles and leeches. After the rescue, the sea turtle was transported to SeaWorld Orlando.

Upon arrival, the turtle was significantly underweight and lethargic.  The team performed a full veterinary exam, radiographs and administered antibiotics.   Additionally, the sea turtle was unable to eat on its own and required regular tube feedings, along with gastro-intestinal medications and treatments for parasites. Since arriving at SeaWorld for rehabilitation, this sea turtle has returned to eating on its own, has gained 10 pounds and was medically cleared to be returned yesterday.

So far in 2014, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 32 sea turtles and returned 21 sea turtles. 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 23,000 animals in need - ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned - for more than four decades. Since 1980, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued more than 1,700 turtles and returned more than 1,100. For more information, visit SeaWorldCares.com.

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