Loggerhead Marinelife Center Staff Hard at Work this Holiday Season
Juno Beach Fla. (December 21, 2023) – Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) received four cold-stunned loggerhead sea turtles from Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, making a total of eight patients at the Center. In a collaborative effort with Turtles Fly Too and the Virginia Aquarium, the turtles were flown privately to Palm Beach County to receive care from LMC’s expert veterinary team.
"We are delighted that our recent expansion here at Loggerhead Marinelife Center has provided sufficient space to be able to assist Virginia Aquarium in providing extended care for these four loggerhead sea turtles," said LMC Chief Science Officer and Head Veterinarian, Dr. Heather Barron.
The cold-stun patients, Mylo, Sterno, Mini, and Rhombo, are receiving much-needed TLC after being rescued from the icy waters of Virginia. Cold-Stunning occurs when water temperatures fall below 50 degrees and the turtle’s body nears hypothermic levels. As a result, they become lethargic and are vulnerable to predators or drowning. These sea turtles are being treated for frostbite and possible pneumonia; they will remain in the care of LMC until healthy enough for release.
Patients, Romeo and Squirtle, were successfully released near their original stranding locations in Jensen Beach, on Wednesday, December 21. During his recovery time at the Center, Romeo was brought to Jupiter Medical Center and received a CT scan from Dr. Lee Fox. This scan provided valuable insight into the turtle’s condition and resulted in a swift recovery.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center is hard at work successfully rehabilitating and releasing sea turtles. Our Center is open 7 days a week and free to the public with many experiences and educational opportunities for all ages. Come meet our many patients on their road to recovery!
About Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Loggerhead Marinelife Center, located in Loggerhead Park, Juno Beach, Florida, is a sea turtle research, rehabilitation, education, and conservation center. The Center also manages the Juno Beach Pier across the street from the park. Established in 1983, LMC seeks to promote the conservation of ocean ecosystems with a special focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles. Its facilities include a sea turtle hospital, a research laboratory, and exhibit areas, including live sea turtles and other coastal creatures. For more information, visit www.marinelife.org or call (561)-627-8280.
MEDIA CONTACT
Hannah Nikkinen
561-627-8280, x 132