Wildlife

Sea Turtle Rehabilitation and Release

Sea turtles are frequently injured by boat strikes, entanglement, and ingestion of marine debris. Rehabilitation centers play a vital role in treating and releasing these long-lived reptiles.

Key Facts

Cold-stunning affects loggerhead and Kemp ridley turtles in the northeastern US each winter
Fibropapillomatosis, a tumor disease, affects a high proportion of green turtles globally
Boat propeller injuries are a leading cause of sea turtle rehabilitation in Florida
Successful rehabilitation and release depends on complete recovery of swimming ability and feeding

Welfare Considerations

Sea turtle rehabilitation addresses injuries caused primarily by human activities. Welfare during care includes pain management for injuries, appropriate temperature regulation, and nutritional support. Release criteria must include full recovery to prevent releasing animals that cannot survive independently. Long-term welfare of rehabilitated turtles is supported by satellite tracking programs.

What You Can Do

Slow down and watch for sea turtles when boating in coastal areas
Report injured sea turtles to licensed rehabilitation facilities immediately
Reduce plastic and marine debris that causes sea turtle ingestion injuries
Support funding for sea turtle rehabilitation centers and post-release monitoring