Nature
Rescuers Race to Save Cold-Stunned Sea Turtles
Hundreds of sea turtles in North Carolina’s coastal regions fell victim to frigid temperatures, prompting rescue and rehabilitation efforts by several conservation teams. Despite the loss, the community’s vigilance and timely interventions offer hope for the survival of these creatures.
By Beth Snider · January 28, 2024
Sea Turtles in Peril
North Carolina's coastal regions have witnessed a poignant struggle for survival, as sea turtles succumbed to the frigid temperatures that have swept through the area. North Carolina Aquarium Society/Facebook
Race Against Time
Researchers and wildlife conservation teams raced against time to rescue and rehabilitate the cold-stunned turtles, a perilous condition that renders the reptiles sluggish and unable to swim or eat. U.S. Coast Guard Mid-Atlantic/Facebook
CMAST Rescue Mission
Over 100 cold-stunned sea turtles were rescued by the NC State University Center for Marine Sciences and Technology (CMAST) at Cape Lookout, North Carolina, last week. Unfortunately, only 36 of them survived the freezing conditions. CMAST - NC State University Center for Marine Sciences and Technology/Facebook
Rehab Centers
Deceased turtles will undergo necropsies for research while surviving turtles are being treated at CMAST. After treatment, they are transferred to the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Topsail for further rehabilitation before release. CMAST - NC State University Center for Marine Sciences and Technology/Facebook
Shoreline Rescue
Additionally, cold-stunned sea turtles were discovered along the shoreline between Bodie Island and Ocracoke this week, as temperatures dropped. The National Park explained that cold-stunned turtles risk drowning as their bodily functions slow down, making it difficult to breathe. Cape Hatteras National Seashore/Facebook
Cold-Stunning
Dedicated volunteers and biologists monitor the shorelines during cold weather, rescuing turtles and transporting them to the STAR center at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island for rehabilitation. Cape Hatteras National Seashore/Facebook
Lethargic & Hypothermic
According to experts, cold-stunning events occur when the Gulf Stream's temperature drops during the fall and winter months affecting the cold-blooded sea turtles. This condition leaves them vulnerable to becoming lethargic and hypothermic, often washing ashore due to winds and tides. USCG ANT Wanchese/Facebook
Helping the Sea Turtles Recover
The North Carolina Aquariums, particularly the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center, have played a pivotal role in nursing these turtles back to health. NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores/Facebook
Slow Warming
Turtles of various species, including green, Kemp's ridley, and loggerhead, have received specialized care, including slow warming to optimal body temperature, medication, and treatment of any injuries. North Carolina Aquarium Society/Facebook
Essential Rehab Centers
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center also joined the effort, taking in more than 50 turtles and appealing for community support to acquire supplies for the rehabilitation process. Rehab centers like these are crucial hubs for bringing these creatures back to their natural state. The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center/Facebook
Rehab and Release
This winter, North Carolina has witnessed several small-scale cold-stunning events, and collaborative initiatives provide the turtles with a chance of survival as they recover strength and return to their natural behaviors. The rehabilitation centers carefully monitor the turtles, and once cleared by veterinarians, the turtles are tagged with microchips and released into warmer waters. NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll/Facebook
Dedication
Despite the poignant loss of numerous turtles, conservationists continue their unwavering dedication to the mission of preserving sea turtles, essential members of the coastal ecosystem. Cape Lookout National Seashore/Facebook
Public Vigilance is Helpful
As the rescue and rehabilitation efforts continue, the North Carolina community is reminded to remain vigilant and report any stranded turtles to the appropriate authorities. U.S. Coast Guard Mid-Atlantic/Facebook