Green Sea Turtle Undergoes Successful Surgery

September 12, 2024

The Laguna Madre and Mansfield Channels are extremely important in the migration patterns of a variety of sea turtles, like hawksbill, loggerhead, Kemp’s ridley, and green sea turtles. These waters provide little nooks and crannies for turtles to forage for food and protect themselves. Green sea turtles prefer water temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperatures drop, sea turtles can become weak and inactive from long exposure, resulting in the inability to swim or breathe properly.

Rescue

This turtle came to the Center for Wildlife Rescue on January 17, 2024, during the cold-stunning event that also affected over 300 other rescued sea turtles. At first glance fibropapillomatosis (FP) was immediately recognized. FP is a disease in sea turtles that results in the production of external and potentially internal tumors. These tumors are considered benign but can obstruct crucial functions, such as swimming, feeding, sight, buoyancy, and can lead to death. Because this turtle had tumors affecting both eyes making it unable to hunt or protect itself, surgery was required to bring it to a releasable status.

Surgery and Rehabilitation

This turtle underwent surgery in April to remove tumors on its eyes, and then another surgery to remove tumors on his hind flippers and inguinal (groin) area. The “after” images represent 22 weeks of post-operative care.

Release

To prepare for a release to the Laguna Madre waters, the Animal Care Team will monitor blood values until they normalize. Until then, this green sea turtle will receive quality treatment from our reliable team.