Final Disposition
Released
02/21/2023 Turtle was found washed ashore at 31st beach access in Holmes Beach, Manatee County. Suspect red tide toxicity. Animal was transported to Mote for rehabilitation. Animal is currently dry-docked due to likely red tide neurotoxicity and extreme lethargy. Will receive subcutaneous fluids daily to help flush out toxins until behavior improves and “Farmer” starts eating.
02/24/2023 Farmer failed its swim test today, so will be dry-docked and given fluid therapy another day. Did defecate a large amount of shellfish today, indicating animal had been eating recently prior to stranding.
02/26/2023 Farmer passed his swim test and is now in very shallow water. Was started on antibiotic injections due to signs of pneumonia secondary to stranding.
03/01/2023 Farmer is still quite lethargic and is in very shallow water. He has started showing interest in eating and will eat small amounts of seafood when offered.
03/10/2023 Farmer is eating well. Switched from an injectable antibiotic to an oral antibiotic to minimize handling and stress. Water level of tank is being slowly increased a couple inches every few days as turtle becomes slightly less lethargic.
03/17/2023 Turtle is now more alert and active, so tank depth was raised to full. Farmer continues to eat well.
04/05/2023 Farmer is getting stronger, eating well, and has already gained 9.5 lbs. since stranding! Unfortunately, blood work still indicates mild anemia, so turtle is receiving weekly iron injections.
04/21/2023 Farmer continues to forage full diet offered daily. Was administered Panacur anti-parasitic two weeks apart in case parasites are contributing to anemia.
05/03/2023 Blood values are improving and Farmer continues to eat well and gain weight.
05/16/2023 Lilly and Farmer were released at Lido Beach!