03/31/2026 A late season cold front that occurred mid-March left some sea turtles cold stunned on the east coast of Florida. On 03/31, 11 sea turtle patients were transferred to Mote’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital through coordinated efforts of other sea turtle hospitals (Volusia County Marine Science Center & Sea Turtle Hospital at Whitney Lab) and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The turtles had stranded in different counties along the east coast including Volusia, St. Johns, and Flagler county. Most of these turtles were found 03/30, with one being found 03/29. 2 of the transfer patients had fibropapilloma (FP) tumors. Following transfer, all turtles were weighed and received treatments based off their individual needs. All animals that were stable enough and did well in water were put in tanks with shallow water at 75 degrees. The theme for this group was staff members’ favorite ice cream flavors. The names included: Cheesecake, Rocky Road, Mint, Espresso, Oreo, Cherry Garcia, Butterbeer, Sorbet, Strawberry, Rum, and Raisin.
04/10/2026 All turtles from this group have now been placed in water and are doing well. The water level was gradually increased and most are sitting at half full at full salinity. They are receiving treatments individually based on their condition. Several were started on antibiotics, and one is regularly receiving fluids and IV lipids because they are not eating on their own yet. By 4/3, all turtles besides Cheesecake have started eating and regularly finish their weighed out diet.
04/26/2026 Most of this group of animals continue to do well. One member of this cold stun group, Cheesecake, passed naturally. All others are eating consistently and foraging. Members of this group continue to receive individual treatment as vet staff monitor their bloodwork and overall condition.