The Port of Corpus Christi Center for Wildlife Rescue at the Texas State Aquarium has rescued 332 cold-stunned green sea turtles over three days as frigid temperatures swept through South Texas.<\/p>\n
Between January 26 and January 28, the center activated emergency protocols to manage the sea turtle cold-stunning event caused by the recent temperature drop affecting the region.<\/p>\n
The cold snap left many sea turtles lethargic and unable to swim in Texas waters. As cold-blooded animals, sea turtles rely on environmental warmth to regulate their body temperature. Without adequate warmth, they become vulnerable to serious health issues, including pneumonia and injuries.<\/p>\n
Texas rescuers save 332 sea turtles from freezing waters<\/p>\n
Anticipating the weather event, the aquarium’s wildlife rescue and operations teams prepared emergency Aquatic Field Stabilization systems for an expected influx of cold-stunned sea turtles.<\/p>\n
Partner organizations worked tirelessly to rescue the affected turtles from frigid waters, transporting them in large moving trucks, vehicles and trailers packed to capacity.<\/p>\n
Upon arrival at the center, each sea turtle received thorough assessment and treatment from the aquarium’s veterinary team for cold-stunning and related conditions. Based on their health status, some sea turtles were placed in a warming room to recover and regain strength before moving to the aquarium’s Aquatic Field Stabilization Systems. Others were transferred directly to the stabilization systems for immediate care.<\/p>\n
Sea turtles requiring additional attention will continue to be monitored and treated accordingly.<\/p>\n
The aquarium is coordinating with NOAA’s Office of Protected Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine an appropriate release date and location for the rescued turtles.<\/p>\n
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