Sea Turtle #44

We are excited to announce this #turtletuesday the arrival of our first green sea turtle of the season! Through triage, each turtle receives a unique number to distinguish them from other turtles until a longterm care plan is made. This green sea turtle, number 44, arrived yesterday after being rescued by Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary from Truro, MA between Fisher Beach and Ryder Beach. Like many loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, green sea turtles become stranded in Cape Cod Bay after becoming cold-stunned, a hypothermic-like state caused by being in cold water for too long. 

This condition causes sea turtles to be lethargic and have low metabolism, often growing algae on their shell from lack of movement. Until 44 regains some of their strength and achieves a warmer internal body temperature, they will be given fluids with medication and supplements, as needed. In the mean time, 44 will be closely monitored for their respiratory condition and overall health.