If you have lived close to the ocean, or follow a lot of Marine Rescue facilities online, then you have probably heard the term “cold-stunned” Sea Turtles before. So what does this mean? And what do experts at our partner, the Sea Turtle Conservancy know about it?
According to STC biologist Rick Herren, Sea Turtles are cold-blooded animals, so instead of being able to regulate their own bodies internal temperature, like humans and other mammals, their body temperature is about the same as the water they live in. Normally during the winter time, when water temperatures may become extremely cold, Sea Turtles will move into deeper water or move South to safely avoid frigid temperatures. However, sometimes Sea Turtles may get caught off guard by cold weather fronts and sudden freezing temperatures, which can lead them to become “cold-stunned”. With prolonged exposure to water that is too cold, Sea Turtles’ cold-blooded bodies become stunned, meaning they can’t move and they will float to the surface or lay on beaches, unable to eat or drink. If they are stuck in this state for long enough, they may become dangerously dehydrated.
Luckily, when they are found early on, animal rescue and rehab experts are able to help these Sea Turtles! By slowly raising the Turtles’ body temperatures back to normal a few degrees a day, so that the temperature change doesn’t shock their bodies, the experts are able to rehabilitate these Sea Turtles so that they can be released back into their natural habitats.
If you ever happen to find a Sea Turtle that is floating or on a beach that is not moving, always call your local Wildlife or Marinelife experts! These professionals will be able to help the Sea Turtle, and hopefully rehabilitate it so it may be re-released back into its natural habitat soon!
