A special sea turtle named Tiramisu has returned to the ocean after months of care. She was found washed ashore on Florida’s St. George Island in March.
Patrol officers called experts at the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. They believe Tiramisu, a green sea turtle about three or four years old, was a victim of a "cold-stunning" event. This happens when water temperatures drop below 50°F, making sea turtles weak and unable to move.
The marine lab helps cold-stunned turtles as part of Florida’s sea turtle stranding network. This year, they took on more turtles after another facility closed.
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Start Your News DetoxTiramisu's Rescue and Recovery
When Tiramisu was found, she was very weak and covered in algae and sand. Her skin was severely damaged, leaving painful sores. She also had pneumonia from being in the surf too long and could barely move.
The team at the lab gave her constant care. Paige Parker from the lab explained they used laser treatments and antibiotics. Tiramisu couldn't swim for about two weeks, but therapy, rehydration, and vitamins helped her get healthier.
After months, Tiramisu's skin healed, and her appetite returned. She was "thriving." Once she finished her antibiotics, she was cleared to go back to the wild.
On July 16, a crowd gathered to watch her release. The lab shared on Facebook that it was wonderful to send Tiramisu back home.
A New Hospital for More Turtles
Tiramisu’s recovery is especially important for the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab. In February, during the same cold-stun event, the lab helped rescue and release over 600 sea turtles. During this time, the community raised over $50,000 for a new Sea Turtle Hospital facility at the lab.
This expansion will allow the lab to do more surgeries and advanced medical procedures. This helps fill a big need in the Florida Panhandle.
The lab believes this means more turtles like Tiramisu will get a second chance. They see every turtle as an "ambassador for ocean conservation."
