Summary of Tracking a Released Sea Turtle Patient:
A sea turtle named Stromboli was released back into the ocean after rehabilitation. Stromboli is part of the Sea Turtle Conservancy‘s Tour de Turtles, a tracking event where turtles swim to see who can cover the furthest distance during migration. Stromboli, also known as “Zee” for the event, was fitted with a satellite tag on its shell to track its location. After ingesting a ghost net, the turtle was brought to the Healing Center and underwent months of treatment before being deemed healthy for release. The article also reminds readers about the threat of fishing equipment entanglement to marine life and provides resources for reporting injured sea turtles.
Summary:
1. Stromboli, a subadult green sea turtle, has been released back into the ocean as part of the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles.
2. Stromboli was outfitted with a satellite tag to track their migration and distance traveled during the event.
3. Stromboli was rescued after consuming a ghost net and underwent several procedures at the Healing Center before being deemed healthy for release.
4. The public can track Stromboli’s whereabouts through the Tour de Turtles website.
5. The article emphasizes the importance of preventing entanglement in fishing equipment to protect marine life.
Tracking a Released Sea Turtle Patient
One of the most incredible success stories in sea turtle conservation has unfolded recently with the release of Stromboli, a subadult green sea turtle, back into the ocean. As part of the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Tour de Turtles, Stromboli has embarked on a remarkable journey, striving to swim the furthest distance during the migration marathon.
Before their release on July 30, Stromboli was fitted with a satellite tag generously provided by a sponsor of the Tour de Turtles. This cutting-edge technology allows us to track Stromboli’s movements and monitor their progress throughout the event. The Tour de Turtles website provides an interactive map displaying Stromboli’s approximate location worldwide for those eager to follow along.
But what led Stromboli to the Healing Center in the first place? In February 2023, Stromboli fell victim to a ghost net, a fishing net that had been lost or abandoned in the vast ocean or waterways. UCF’s Marine Turtle Research Group discovered Stromboli during a population study at Sebastian Inlet State Park. It was clear that the turtle had become entangled in the net as a single line protruded from its mouth, leaving a deep furrow behind.
Immediately following the rescue, the dedicated team at the Healing Center sprung into action. Stromboli underwent multiple endoscopies, ultrasounds, and CT scans to assess the extent of the net’s damage and remove as much as possible. Over five months, the turtle received diligent care, including a healthy diet, antibiotics, and enrichments, all aimed at restoring its health and preparing it for the ultimate goal – release back into the wild.
The day of Stromboli’s release was bittersweet for the entire team, who had worked tirelessly to ensure the turtle’s recovery. They bid farewell to a remarkable patient and were privileged to observe where this resilient creature may venture next. The satellite tag affixed to Stromboli’s carapace will provide data contributing to our understanding of sea turtle migration patterns and behavior.
While the release of Stromboli brings immense joy, it also serves as a reminder of the daily threats that marine life faces. Entanglement in fishing equipment, such as ghost nets, remains one of the most significant dangers to sea turtles and other marine creatures. All of us must play our part in protecting these majestic creatures and their fragile habitats.
Next time you embark on a fishing expedition, remember to pack and secure your gear carefully before and after use. Additionally, waterfront parks often provide designated bins for disposing of unwanted monofilament lines. By taking these simple steps, we can ensure that our fishing activities do not inadvertently harm marine life.
If you ever find yourself accidentally hooking a sea turtle, it is vital to report the incident immediately. Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC, and their trained professionals will guide you through the appropriate steps to ensure the turtle’s safety.
Finally, the Sea Turtle Preservation Society stands ready to intervene for those who come across stranded or injured sea turtles needing assistance. Visit their website or call 321-206-0646 to report a sea turtle in distress and provide them with the required care and attention.
The release of Stromboli exemplifies the incredible work being carried out by organizations and individuals dedicated to conserving sea turtles. It serves as a beacon of hope for the future of these magnificent creatures, reminding us that every action, no matter how small, can make a significant impact. Let us celebrate this triumph and continue to share the passion for preserving the wonders of our natural world.
