Wonders of Wildlife's Sea Turtle Center Receives Fifth Group of Critically Ill Turtles for Rehabilitation

Critically Ill Sea Turtles Find Refuge at Wonders of Wildlife

The Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (WOW) has recently welcomed its fifth group of critically ill sea turtles to its premier Sea Turtle Center located in Springfield, Missouri. This dedicated facility is notable as the only sea turtle rescue center in the Midwest and is a beacon of hope for marine life in distress. Since its establishment in 2020, WOW has rehabilitated over 40 vulnerable sea turtles, including various species such as loggerheads, green sea turtles, and Kemp's ridley turtles, significantly contributing to marine conservation.

In late December, a new cohort consisting of 20 loggerhead and Kemp's ridley sea turtles arrived at the facility. Their rescue was prompted by an alarming surge of sea turtle strandings along the northeastern coastline of the U.S. Due to a steep drop in ocean temperatures, these turtles were cold-stunned, a condition that renders them immobile and susceptible to a range of health complications such as hypothermia and pneumonia. The exceptional rescue was coordinated with the assistance of Turtles Fly Too, which arranged a transport flight from The New England Aquarium in Boston.

Upon their arrival at WOW, the turtles received an immediate assessment and advanced medical care from a team of expert animal caregivers. This comprehensive treatment includes hydration therapy, wound management, nutritional support, and specialized veterinary care to ensure a robust recovery. The commitment to these turtles' well-being is evident in the various treatments being implemented to stabilize their health.

“We are dedicated to giving these turtles a fighting chance at survival,” stated Mike Daniel, the Director of Animal Care at WOW. “Each rescue represents an essential move to safeguard the future of these endangered species, and we take pride in being a vital part of that mission.”

The cold-stunning of sea turtles has become a pressing issue, especially along the northeastern coast, where NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service noted over 400 instances of cold-stunned turtles this season alone. The precariousness of their life cycle is striking; given that merely 1 in 1,000 hatchlings survive to adulthood, each successful rehabilitation holds substantial importance for the preservation of these endangered species.

While the newly arrived turtles are currently not on public display due to their delicate condition, visitors to the WOW can still engage with the resident green sea turtles, Izzy and Ms. Pam, in the Open Ocean exhibit. This interaction educates guests on conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these extraordinary creatures.

Advancements in Conservation: Satellite Tracking Technology

In an exciting leap forward for marine conservation, WOW launched a satellite tracking program in spring 2024, aiming to monitor rehabilitated sea turtles post-release. This initiative was made possible with the support of Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Outdoor Fund grant. This technology grants researchers crucial insights into turtle migration patterns, habitat preferences, and their lifecycle progression. Moreover, visitors can trace the journeys of five turtles released earlier in the year through an interactive feature on the WOW website.

With the introduction of this fifth group of rescued turtles, WOW is set to expand its satellite tagging program further. The eligible turtles will don specialized tracking devices prior to their release, facilitating nearly real-time monitoring of their journeys through the ocean.

“We are committed to preserving sea turtle populations far beyond just rehabilitation,” Daniel added. “By incorporating cutting-edge tracking technologies into our efforts, we're not only providing a second chance for these turtles but also enriching essential global research that can safeguard future generations.”

Fostering the Future of Conservation

Wonders of Wildlife seeks to ignite passion for marine conservation among the youth. To cultivate the next generation of conservationists, WOW is initiating partnerships with local schools to offer educational programs, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes experiences focusing on marine life protection, specifically endangered sea turtles.

For those eager to learn more about the initiatives at Johnny Morris' Sea Turtle Center and their ongoing conservation efforts, further details can be explored at wondersofwildlife.org/sea-turtles.

About Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

This extraordinary facility is home to a remarkable 1.5-million-gallon aquarium featuring 35,000 animals, immersive wildlife galleries, and a comprehensive educational experience dedicated to those committed to both hunting and fishing as well as environmental conservation. Located near Bass Pro Shops National Headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, WOW is recognized as a premier conservation destination, earning accolades including “Best New Attraction in America” and “America's Best Aquarium” numerous times. For additional information, visit www.wondersofwildlife.org.