Menken
Species: Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Arrival Date: December 3, 2018
Stranding Location: Fort Pierce, FL
Initial Weight: 54.16 lbs.
Current Weight: 54.16 lbs.
Issue: Buoyancy (intestinal)
Current Condition: New patient
Menken is a juvenile green sea turtle patient that was found floating in the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Pierce. Upon arrival a complete exam was performed. Bloodwork showed that the turtle was hypoglycemic and had an elevated white cell count. Radiographs showed a large amount of gas in the intestines, causing the floatation issue. The turtle will be treated with antibiotics to treat the intestinal infection. Follow-up bloodwork will be performed weekly to track the progression of the health of the turtle.
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:
01/03/2019 - The turtle was released privately in Jensen Beach, FL
12/26/2018 - Antibiotics have been discontinued and the white blood cell count has remained normal. Turtle may be ready for release in the near future.
12/12/2018 - Menken's blood values are all normal. Antibiotics will be discontinued later this week.
12/12/2018 - Menken has finally begun to eat and is no longer floating. The turtle has been tagged.
12/05/2018 - Arrived - The turtle does not seem to have an appetite.