Cindy upon arrival.

Cindy is one of several sea turtles rescued as part of a mass stranding event in Massachusetts due to cold water temperatures. Sea turtles, which are reptiles, become lethargic and their internal organs and bodily functions can be hindered or shut down altogether when water temperatures drop low enough and they become hypothermic.

Cindy and several other cold stunned loggerheads were flown to Florida by the U.S. Coast Guard after initial rescue and treatment by the New England Aquarium. The turtle came to Mote with Stu and Lou. Other facilities that have taken cold stunned turtles from this stranding event include Sea World, Volusia Marine Science Center, Loggerhead Marinelife Center and the Florida Aquarium.

12/7 Cindy arrived in fairly good condition.  Turtle was placed at full water level and was able to dive and rest on the bottom of the tank. 

12/8 Cindy ate all food offered right away.

12/8 Antibiotics are being given every three days. 

12/11 Low potassium levels, potassium supplements given in food.

12/14 Antibiotics and potassium discontinued. Animal continues to eat everything offered, and is active and foraging off bottom.

1/4 Turtle iron levels just a little low, iron injection given.  All other parameters indicate turtle is eligible for release. 

1/9 Turtle released off of the East coast of Florida!