PHOTOS: Brevard Zoo Takes In Tiny Sea Turtle Washbacks

Brevard Zoo’s Sea Turtle Healing Center just received 39 green and loggerhead sea turtle “washbacks” that had been pushed ashore when their habitat was disrupted by heavy waves.

“These washbacks came to us from up and down the Brevard County coastline this past week,” said sea turtle program manager Shanon Gann. “Our staff and volunteers diligently cared for these little patients, who have been sent to Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton. They will be transported via boat back to the weed lines today.”

Upon hatching, sea turtles rely on energy stored from their yolk sac to make the multi-mile swim to offshore weed lines, which provide shelter and food. If the seaweed is disturbed by a storm or strong winds, they may be washed back to shore and lose the energy to make the long swim again.

Sea Turtle Preservation Society (STPS) volunteers are transporting the turtles to the Healing Center. Individuals who find washbacks should immediately call STPS at 321-676-1701 or Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-3922 for rescue instructions.

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