Georgia aquarium rehabbing nearly a dozen endangered turtles that have been ‘cold-stunned’ – WSB-TV Channel 2

ATLANTA — The Georgia Aquarium said it is currently rehabbing nearly a dozen sea turtles who have been cold-stunned.

All of the turtles are also considered to be endangered species.

Cold-stunning is a condition in which sea turtles become weak and inactive from exposure to cold temperatures.

[PHOTOS: Cold-stunned turtles rehabbing at Georgia Aquarium]

The aquarium said the turtles, which were rescued off the coast of New England, have been taken to their off-site care facility for temporary care and housing.

The turtles were brought to Atlanta by an organization called Turtles Fly Too, which is made up of pilots that help in coordinating and facilitating large-scale relocation efforts for endangered species.

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“They donate their time, aircrafts, and resources to fly cold-stunned sea turtles to zoos and aquariums for treatment and care until they can return to the ocean. The pilots and volunteers at Turtles Fly Too are crucial in ensuring safe transport for these animals,” the aquarium said in a news release.

The aquarium said its team of experts and veterinarians have done initial exams of all the turtles. Two of the loggerheads have also received CAT scans, “to ensure there are no underlying issues while the Aquarium handles the turtle’s veterinary care.”

“Georgia Aquarium is proud to provide a home and care for these cold-stunned sea turtles with the goal of eventual release back to the ocean,” said Kristin Mathews, senior curator of animal acquisitions and quarantine at Georgia Aquarium. “Without our help, these animals face worsening conditions which can lead to death. It is crucial that we do our part to save these endangered species.”

The aquarium said it will monitor the turtles to figure out when they can be released back into the ocean.

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