On February 6, Clara Macciocchi was running on a Florida beach when she found a green sea turtle. It had washed ashore and was struggling to keep its head above the waves. Macciocchi knew this was not normal and called the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
The aquarium asked her to stay with the turtle until their rescue team could arrive. Macciocchi decided to wait to make sure no one bothered the struggling animal.
A Difficult Decision
The sea turtle tried to swim back into the ocean, but its flippers were weak. It quickly became tired. Macciocchi worried the turtle might drown if she didn't help.
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Start Your News DetoxTouching sea turtles is illegal in the United States under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. However, experts say there are exceptions in emergencies. Andrew Orgill, a sea turtle specialist, explained that people can be "deputized" to help in life-or-death situations. There's also a Good Samaritan act.
Macciocchi decided to follow her gut. She gently moved the turtle a few feet away from the waves. When she spoke to the rescue staff again, they confirmed she had done the right thing and told her to keep the turtle on shore.
A Long Wait and a Happy Ending
Macciocchi stayed by the turtle's side for over three hours. It grew cold as the sun set, but she refused to leave. A friend eventually arrived with blankets, coats, and pizza. Finally, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium staff appeared.
Macciocchi was sad to say goodbye but happy help had arrived. The rescuers promised the turtle would be cared for in a warm tank.
Macciocchi learned that the turtle was one of over 30 affected by a cold snap that week. Many recovered quickly, but some needed more rehabilitation, including her rescue. She visited the aquarium to check on her friend, who turned out to be a boy named Ladon.
Biologists said Ladon was doing well but needed more tests before release. He was grouped with other cold-stunned turtles named after Greek mythological figures.
Ladon later developed an infection and was given antibiotics. Despite this setback, he continued to improve.
On May 28, over two months later, Ladon was finally released back into the wild. He was released with Hermes, another turtle rescued during the same cold snap. Both turtles were cleared by veterinarians and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium was thrilled to see them healthy and back home.
Many people followed Ladon's story online. They thanked Macciocchi for her dedication and care, calling her actions historic.
