On #NationalNonprofitDay, our hospital team released 300 sea turtle hatchlings into the Sargasso Sea! Prior to their release, these hatchlings received critical care and rehabilitation for several weeks at our hospital. Sick, injured or disoriented hatchlings were brought to our 24/7 hatchling cooler after being found on our local beaches thanks to vigilant beachgoers. Typically, hatchlings brought to the Center are ones that were not strong enough to swim into the ocean after hatching or possibly headed in the wrong direction due to bright lights. The hatchlings were brought to our Center in a bucket with damp sand and no water upon proper sea turtle safety guidelines and protocols. To those who have helped us spread sea turtle conservation awareness, or have helped rescue a sea turtle, we sincerely thank you for your efforts.
Upon their release in the Sargasso Sea, where they will spend the first few years of their lives, our rehabilitation team came across a large balloon and marine debris. They took the time to remove the debris from the ocean before sending off our littlest of patients. Sea turtles continue to face many threats, including human-caused threats, but with your help, we can ensure they have the best chance at survival. With this in mind, we encourage you to consider exploring our conservation efforts to help reduce the amount of debris that enters our oceans. Learn more at: marinelife.org
*All footage acquired under Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Permit. Sea turtles are protected under the Endangered Species Act.