Camper
Camper
Species: Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Arrival Date: July 16, 2020
Stranding Location: Jupiter, FL
Initial Weight: 181.1 lbs.
Current Weight: 181.9 lbs.
Issue: Boat Strike, Debilitation
Camper is a subadult loggerhead that was seen multiple times over several weeks at Coral Cove. It had an old boat injury to the caudal carapace and the right front flipper was missing about half of its length. The turtle was lethargic. The cause of the lethargy is under investigation. Leeches were found in the turtle’s mouth, so it was placed in fresh water for a time.
PROGRESS KEY:
This turtle is progressing well and responding to therapy as desired.
There is a minor issue that we are working to resolve.
More details to follow.
PROGRESS NOTES:
08/13/2020 - Upon admission, the turtle had an old, healed carapace wound and another old, healed wound where its right front flipper had been amputated, either by a boat strike, entanglement or shark bite. Since the turtle had obviously survived with the wounds for some time, the turtle was evaluated for other issues. Bloodwork showed that the turtle had not been eating for the past month or so, indicating it was not thriving in the wild. Neurological examination revealed that the turtle was attempting to swim with only one flipper, but had much difficulty swimming, even in very shallow water. After a discussion with our partners at Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, it has been determined that this turtle will only starve if released into the wild. It was also determined that even in captivity, the quality of life for this individual is never going to be sufficient, so it has been determined that the most humane option for this turtle is euthanasia. This was not an easy decision, but we feel that it is the best course of action for this turtle.
08/06/2020 -Camper's white cell count remains normal and the turtle's status remains unchanged. We are holding a discussion with Florida Fish and Wildlife regarding the turtles future.
07/30/2020 -Camper's white blood cell count remains normal and the turtle is being monitored closely.
07/23/2020 -Camper's white blood cell count remains and the turtle is being evaluated for several issues related to trauma.
07/16/2020 - New Patient