12/25/2022  Turtle was found cold and washed ashore at Rattlesnake Island in St. Johns County on the east coast of Florida.  It was transported to Sea Turtle Hospital at Whitney Lab for rehabilitation.  While at Whitney Lab, he was started on subcutaneous fluids, antibiotics, etc.  He had no interest in eating, so was tube fed every few days to help deliver nutrition.

01/19/2023  Due to overcrowding of some facilities on the east coast, FWC transferred some turtles to Mote for rehabilitation.  Elf was put in a rehab. tank at a very low water level to acclimate after transport.  

01/20/2023  Elf ignored all seafood offered, but eagerly ate sea grass today!

01/25/2023  The depth of animal's tank is being slowly increased.  He/she is more active and is now eating seafood, lettuce, and sea grass.  Continues to receive antibiotic injections every couple days until blood work improves.

01/28/2023  Turtle's tank is now at full depth.  Elf is very active and is eagerly eating all seafood and lettuce offered daily.

02/06/2023  Elf was sedated and had surgery to remove the fibropapilloma tumors present.  

02/18/2023  Elf recovered well following his surgery.  He continues to eat well and spend much of the day swimming.  Because he is eating well, he is now receiving oral antibiotics instead of injectable to minimize stress from handling.

02/25/2023  Elf is healing well and blood values have improved, so antibiotics have been discontinued.

03/10/2023  Mote staff released Elf on the east coast today.