Mississippi Aquarium releases 16 sea turtles after cold-stun recovery

BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) – The Mississippi Aquarium bids farewell to 16 endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. This release comes after the Mississippi Aquarium provided levels of care to restore health and recovery for nearly five months.

The group sent the batch on their way back home into the Mississippi Sound.

Alexa Delaune, Vice President of Veterinarian Services and Research said 40 Kemp’s ridley sea turtles were flown by the Turtles Fly Too organization after a cold-stun event in New England.

“When they come in, they have a lot of different ailments,” said Delaune. “Some have frostbite or pneumonia, or GI disturbances, bone infections. Each time we get a turtle, we do a full physical exam. We do x-rays. ultrasounds, bloodwork. Each one gets a treatment plan. “

Veterinarians monitor the turtles’ status every two weeks to ensure animals are recovering. Of the 40, 16 were deemed healthy for release.

Dozens came to see the turtles off at Biloxi Beach. Some shared it was their first time seeing an ocean creature up close.

“I’ve never been here before and they’re so cute. It’s really educating because they tell me all about sea turtles,” said Elliott Guidl.

“I’ve always wanted to see it and see how they protect them and put them out when it’s okay to,” Rachel Watkins.

“They’re kind of the favorite memory of my life and the turtles are very cute also,” Cameron Brown.

So, where are they headed after returning to the Mississippi Sound?

“This species is commonly found in the gulf which is why we’re able to release them here. They travel up the eastern seaboard and follow their food along. They kind of migrate up and then come back,” said Delaune.

A bittersweet goodbye to a fresh start.

If you’d like to adopt a turtle and assist in recovery efforts, visit the Mississippi Aquarium website for more information.

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