Grinch upon arrival.

Grinch 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. This turtle arrived at Mote with MayHou and Augustus.

The turtles were sent to Florida after initial rescue and treatment by the New England Aquarium. 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.

12/27 Grinch has started to slough off its scutes (scales) due to freezing. You can see exposed bone on carapace and plastron. Turtle also has a large wound on right front flipper that is beginning to heal.  Calcium levels are very low and supplements are being given in food.  Turtle is on an antibiotic treatment and fluid therapy. Grinch has adjusted very well to the medical pool — the turle is swimming and resting on the bottom. Seems active and alert. Grinch is eating food offered, mostly foraging off the bottom of tank.

1/21 Antibiotic treatment is continued and an antifungal has been added to treatment.  Turtle continues to eat well.  Wounds are debrided routinely to allow for new tissue growth and quicker healing.

5/16 Turtle's carapace is healing great.  Turtle may be eligible for release soon.

6/7 Turtle is in good health and carapace has healed over. Transported to East coast of Florida and turned over to Florida Fish and Wildlife for release.

Grinch during treatment