Adoption – Lucia

Description

Date: June 8, 2024
Location: Walton County, Florida
Circumstances: Trauma

“Lucia” a subadult loggerhead sea turtle was brought to Gulf World Marine Institute late in the afternoon on World Ocean’s Day, Saturday, June 8, 2024. Thanks to the determined efforts of our friends at  South Walton Turtle Watch, Lucia, who had reportedly been struggling to swim in the shallow waters near shore in Walton County, was rescued and transported to our rehabilitation program.

It was clear that Lucia had endured some recent trauma, as the turtle’s left front flipper was largely missing, left rear flipper has open wounds, and back end/tail area also has open wounds. Lucia has begun medical treatment for these injuries and has been placed in a shallow water habitat to slowly assess energy levels and mobility without causing additional stress. Lucia has a healthy appetite and is eating capelin and herring.

We thank our stranding network partners for their assistance in bringing this beautiful loggerhead to our rehab program!