An unusual arctic blast in northern Florida last week resulted in a rare snowfall and left green sea turtles in distress as far south as St. Augustine. The cold temperatures led to a condition known as cold stunning among the sea turtles along Florida's northeastern Atlantic Coast.
Seventeen stranded sea turtles were rescued and taken to the Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach for rehabilitation. Dr. Heather Barron, the center's chief science officer and veterinarian, explained that the cold weather on land also affected the ocean, causing turtles to become debilitated and stranded.
The turtles were given names inspired by beverages, with their new names painted on the back of their shells. Veterinarians at the center are providing treatment with antibiotics, fluids, and intravenous nutrition to aid in their recovery.
Despite the snow reaching as far south as northern Florida, the frigid temperatures extended to South Florida, resulting in cold-stunned turtles being found along Palm Beach County's coastline. This phenomenon is highly unusual for the region, as sea turtles typically migrate to Florida during this time of year for warmer waters.
Several turtles, including Espresso, Pickle Juice, and Ginger Beer, were seen basking in the sunshine in the center's 'Party Tank' by Wednesday morning. These turtles were brought to Juno Beach from the Marine Science Center in Volusia County, Florida, after suffering from cold stunning, which causes loss of mobility and lethargy in sea turtles.
Most of the 17 turtles are expected to be released back into the ocean in a few weeks after completing their rehabilitation. This incident is reminiscent of a similar situation last year when turtles from Massachusetts were brought to Florida for rehabilitation due to cold stunning.
