J.I.C.

Species: Loggerhead Sea Turtle
(Caretta caretta)

Arrival Date: May 10, 2018
Stranding Location: Jensen Beach, FL

Initial Weight: 119.1 lbs.
Current Weight: 128.52 lbs.

Issue: Chronic Debilitated
Current Condition: Improving

J.I.C. stands for Jupiter Inlet Colony a beautiful town nestled on the southern end of Jupiter Island in Palm Beach County, Florida. With stunning ocean, inlet and intracoastal views, this idyllic enclave enjoys unparalleled natural ecosystems and biodiversity. The beaches of J.I.C. are among the most densely nested sea turtle nesting beaches on the planet and these beaches serve as the nesting grounds for three distinct species of nesting sea turtles (leatherback, loggerhead and green sea turtles).

ADMISSION NOTE:

J.I.C. is a sub-adult loggerhead sea turtle patient that was found at the St. Lucie Power Plant Intake Canal. The turtle arrived with a heavy epibiota load that included barnacles, algae, and leeches due to its inactivity. The fresh water soak, that lasted for two days, helped to rid the turtle of the leeches. The barnacles were manually removed to allow for clear radiographs. The turtle is missing part of its posterior carapace and has several fractures due to an old unknown injury, most likely caused by a boat strike. Upon arrival, the patient’s bloodwork showed anemia, hypoglycemia and overall poor health. J.I.C. will be receiving supplemental iron, subcutaneous fluids, and several antibiotics. We will be monitoring bloodwork weekly during treatment.

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:

08/29/2018 –  J.I.C was tagged this week in preparation for release next week.

08/22/2018 –  J.I.C has completely recovered from the anemia.

08/16/2018 –

08/10/2018 –

07/29/2018 –  J.I.C.’s carapace and caudal skin lesions are almost completely healed.

07/18/2018 –

07/11/2018 –

07/04/2018 –

06/27/2018 –  J.I.C.’s anemia is now rapidly improving!

06/20/2018 –

06/13/2018 –

06/07/2018 –  The turtle is still anemic but doing very well otherwise.

05/30/2018 –  We are beginning to see some bone marrow production of new blood cells, so the anemia should begin to resolve soon.

05/24/2018 –  J.I.C. was initially hesitant to eat capelin, but has now begun to eat it well.

05/16/2018 – New patient