Rescued, Rehabilitated & Back in the Wild

Last month, on Friday, January 17, 43 green sea turtles returned to the Gulf of Mexico after spending more than a week under the care of the Houston Zoo veterinary department and the Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research. Since sea turtles are prone to cold stunning on the bay side, all turtles were released on the beachside, where they can access warmer waters before the temperature drops in the coming days. The sea turtles, ranging in size from three to 20 pounds, were released in a joint effort between the Zoo’s sea turtle team, Texas A&M University at Galveston’s Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Galveston Park Board, and other volunteers who helped rescue the stranded animals.

Approximately 53 sea turtles were found cold stunned in east Matagorda Bay, Follett’s Island, and Galveston during cold temperatures last month. The turtles were slowly warmed, treated, and assessed for strength and vigor. Houston Zoo veterinarians working with their caretakers cleared most of them to go back home.

During their time under Houston Zoo care, some of the turtles were also treated for minor wounds and muscle damage from being washed around in the wind-driven waves. During the final medical check-up, all green sea turtles appeared healthy, vigorous, and ready to go home.

Thanks to the incredible dedication of multiple agencies including Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Galveston Park Board, Texas Game Wardens, and Texas A&M University at Galveston who have worked tirelessly to ensure the survival of the turtles and ensure their successful return to their natural habitat.

People are urged to call 1-866-TURTLE-5 if they find or accidentally catch a sea turtle so that an expert can assess the turtle and provide care if needed.

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.