Green Sea Turtle, Walnut, Released by CMA After Extensive Care and Rehabilitation

Clearwater Marine Aquarium announces the successful release of a juvenile green sea turtle, Walnut, who was also the 50th release for the CMA sea turtle rehabilitation team. After receiving extensive care from CMA rehabilitation and veterinary teams, Walnut has had a complete transformation from their intake to release.

Walnut was found floating near Madeira Beach on April 18. Upon arrival, Walnut had a very thin body condition at intake examination and a minor load of fibropapilloma tumors present. Their initial treatment plan consisted of antibiotics and fluid therapy. Walnut also had an old injury to their plastron, or bottom shell, that did not heal properly. Due to this, our veterinarians did a procedure to open up the wound for debridement. The rehab staff did daily cold laser treatment on the plastron wound to help promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Once Walnut was at a healthy weight, they also underwent fibropapilloma tumor removal surgery. After Walnut’s surgical sites healed, and they are off antibiotics; they have been cleared for release by our staff veterinarian and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium remains committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life, and the successful return of Walnut to their natural habitats is a testament to the dedication of our animal care teams and partners. Walnut’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of marine conservation and the dedication of the animal care professionals who make second chances possible for endangered species like sea turtles.

CMA guests can learn more about rescued sea turtles and see them onsite during their rehabilitation stays. To learn more about our current rescue patients, please visit www.cmaquarium.org/animals/sea-turtles/.