Categories: Sea Turtle

SeaWorld Orlando Returns Rescued Sea Turtles to Canaveral National Seashore

ORLANDO, Florida – Two Kemps Ridley and one loggerhead sea turtles were returned to Canaveral National Seashore east of Titusville, Fla. this morning after rehabilitating at SeaWorld Orlando for several months.

The Kemps Ridley turtles were brought to SeaWorld Orlando on December 23, 2012 by U.S. Coast Guard Airplane, after being rescued just off the coast of Cape Cod, Mass., due to symptoms they suffered from cold stress.

The loggerhead sea turtle was rescued on February 22, 2013 after being found floating in the Port Canaveral Channel emaciated and showing signs of damage to its flippers and neck. Each turtle’s health was evaluated upon arrival at the park by SeaWorld animal experts.

After being medically cleared for today’s return, the park’s Animal Rescue Team transported the turtles to Canaveral National Seashore.

Prior to their return this morning, the Kemps Ridley sea turtles measured approximately 12 inches in length and weigh about 10 pounds; the loggerhead sea turtle measured 28 inches in length and weighed 98 pounds.

So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 39 turtles and returned 31.

If you see injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

VIDEO and IMAGE CREDIT: SeaWorld Orlando