Green (Chelonia mydas)
Stranding Location: North Myrtle Beach, SC
Arrival Date: 4/20/24
Age: Juvenile
Sex: Unknown
Weight: 5.6 kg (12.32 lbs)
Case History
A juvenile green sea turtle was found stranded along the shoreline near a fishing pier in North Myrtle Beach. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources was notified, and a permitted member of the North Myrtle Beach Turtle Team was called to transport the turtle to the Aquarium for treatment.
Treatment
Once Frittata arrived at the Aquarium, we noted that the turtle was covered in sand, algae and barnacles, indicating that the animal had been sick for some time. Upon examination, we also found that Frittata had some old scars and healing abrasions all over her/his body, as well as some swelling on the right side of the head around the ear. We took radiographs (x-rays) and blood samples to learn a bit more about Frittata. Results showed poor bloodwork and large bowel loops. With these results in mind, we started the patient on fluids, dextrose, antibiotics, vitamins and calcium injections. We decided that once Frittata was more stable, we would take a CT to gain more detailed imaging.
After treatments were completed, we decided that Frittata would likely do better in water. Initially, the turtle was tried in a kiddie pool; activity levels were stronger than expected, so Frittata was placed in deeper tank water. However, during this supervised swim time, we observed an awkward swim pattern, and that Frittata was not level while moving about the tank. The other notable observation was that Frittata had a significant head tilt. This means that the turtle is unable to hold her/his head straight and it is tilted to one side. Based on our exam, we believe this head tilt is due to a severe ear infection. With all of these potentially concerning behaviors, we was decided that the safest setup for Frittata would be to go back into the kiddie pool.
Updates
April 23, 2024: We are continuing to keep a close eye on Frittata. Keeping in mind that this is a very sick turtle, we haven’t seen a ton of improvements, and we can’t expect major changes in a few days. We took a CT scan and learned that Frittata has a large amount of gas in her/his gastrointestinal (GI) tract which is likely causing some of the issues. We are continuing to discuss further treatment options. We have also started offering food but haven’t seen any interest from Frittata. This isn’t uncommon with new patients as they don’t feel well and are adjusting to a new environment, so to supplement the lack of appetite, we are administering fluids. Send Frittata all your positive healing vibes!