Bringing Boeier Back

Houston Zoo Veterinarians Clear Endangered Sea Turtle for Safe Return Home

In a remarkable journey of adversity, Boeier, a Kemp’s ridley sea turtle was able return to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico after being stranded more than 5,000 miles away from home. Last week, Boeier underwent a thorough medical evaluation at the Houston Zoo where veterinarians conducted blood tests, radiographs and a physical examination, to ensure the sea turtle was fit to continue her journey home.

Boeier’s survival story almost didn’t happen had it not been for luck when she got entangled in the net of a commercial fishing boat off the southwest coast of the Netherlands. The Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, one of the most endangered species of sea turtle in the world, got caught in a current and drifted away from its warm native habitat to the dangerously cold waters of the North Sea. The sea turtle was lovingly named after the boat that rescued it and taken to Rotterdam Zoo where the cold-stunned sea turtle was nursed back to health.

The year-long journey to bring Boeier back home was no easy feat. Luckily, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s persistence and patience in obtaining necessary documentation including the proper Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) permit that ensured the sea turtle’s safe return home as a cargo passenger on a commercial KLM flight from Amsterdam to Houston.

Upon its arrival on Oct. 29, Boeier received an initial check of well-being conducted by the Zoo’s sea turtle staff and veterinarian where it was cleared for release from the airport. When it arrived to the Houston Zoo, Boeier was placed a deep water tank to allow her to acclimate. Two days later a team of experts conducted a detailed medical examination that included a check of organ function, eyes, mouth, shell and flippers. Radiographs allowed the team to take a closer look at her lungs where there were no signs of pneumonia, and a blood draw checked for inflammation, infections and anemia. The juvenile sea turtle was healthy, vigorous and ready to go home.

Researchers from Texas A&M University at Galveston’s Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research attached a tracking device to monitor her movements after release. On Nov.4, Boeier was taken to Stewart Beach in Galveston where her long-awaited journey back home came to an end.

Boeier’s story highlights the incredible dedication of the multiple agencies and non-profit organizations like U.S. Fish & Wildlife, Sea Animal Rescue Team Foundation (Netherlands), Rotterdam Zoo, Houston Zoo, and Texas A&M University-Galveston’s Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research, among others, who have worked tirelessly to ensure her survival and successful return to her natural habitat.

Boeier’s journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and compassion in wildlife conservation, and its return to the Gulf of Mexico marks a significant milestone for the preservation of these magnificent creatures.

Anytime a sea turtle is found on a beach or shoreline, members of the public are urged to quickly report it by calling 1-866-TURTLE-5 (1-866-887-8535) so an expert can assess the turtle and provide care if needed. Houston Zoo guests can help save wild sea turtles every time they visit the Zoo. A portion of each membership and ticket goes toward supporting the Zoo’s sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation program.