Stromboli the Green Sea Turtle Receives an Endoscopy
A large juvenile green sea turtle was found south of Sebastian Inlet State Park and brought to the Sea Turtle Healing Center on February 9. The turtle, named Stromboli, had a braided line fishing net wrapped around its mouth. Some of the line was removed upon intake, but the veterinary staff suspected the line went well into Stromboli’s digestive tract. An exploratory endoscopy was performed, and the line was followed past the stomach into the duodenum. The line was cut as far down as possible, and Stromboli is on antibiotics and will receive weekly ultrasounds to ensure that the line doesn’t get caught in the turtle’s intestines. Entanglement in fishing equipment is one of the greatest threats to marine life, so it is important to pack your gear before and after use and place unwanted monofilament line in designated bins at waterfront parks.
If you find a sea turtle that needs help, visit the Sea Turtle Preservation Society page or call 321-206-0646. To help the Sea Turtle Healing Center, support the Zoo or view the Healing Center’s wishlist.
Stromboli’s Rehabilitation Story – Brevard Zoo Blog
Stromboli, a juvenile loggerhead sea turtle, was found stranded in the Indian River Lagoon in July of 2018. He was in critical condition, dehydrated and suffering from a severe infection. The Brevard Zoo, located in Melbourne, Florida, was contacted and Stromboli was immediately admitted to their Sea Turtle Healing Center.
Stromboli’s Condition
Upon admission, Stromboli was in dire need of medical attention. He was dehydrated and suffering from a severe infection. The infection had caused him to become lethargic and he was unable to swim. He was also suffering from anemia and had a high white blood cell count, indicating an infection.
Treatment and Care
The veterinary team at the Sea Turtle Healing Center immediately began treatment. Stromboli was placed on a course of antibiotics and fluids. He was also provided with a balanced diet and vitamins to help him regain his strength.
The team monitored Stromboli closely, ensuring that he was receiving the best possible care. After a few weeks, Stromboli began to show signs of improvement. His anemia began to improve and his white blood cell count began to normalize.
Stromboli’s Recovery
Stromboli continued to receive treatment and care for several months. During this time, he regained his strength and was able to swim again. He was also able to feed himself and was no longer lethargic.
The veterinary team was thrilled to see Stromboli’s progress and continued to monitor him closely. After several months, Stromboli was deemed healthy enough to be released back into the wild.
Stromboli’s Release
In November of 2018, Stromboli was released back into the wild. The veterinary team at the Sea Turtle Healing Center was thrilled to see him go. They had worked so hard to ensure that he received the best possible care and that he was healthy enough to be released.
Stromboli’s story is a great example of the amazing work that the veterinary team at the Sea Turtle Healing Center does every day. It is also a reminder of the importance of conservation and protecting our environment.
Stromboli is a prime example of how rehabilitation and conservation work together to ensure the survival of endangered species. Thanks to the hard work of the veterinary team at the Sea Turtle Healing Center, Stromboli was able to make a full recovery and be released back into the wild.
