HOUSTON – 25 green sea turtles were given a second chance to live and released back to the Gulf thanks to animal care professionals from the Houston Zoo.
Partnering with Texas A&M University-Galveston and Texas Parks and Wildlife, the zoo facilitated the rescue after last week’s winter storm, according to a news release.
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A total of 37 turtles were taken 13 miles offshore to the Trident, Texas A&M Galveston’s research vessel due to cold water temperatures.
Last week, as Texas experienced unprecedented freezing conditions from Winter Storm Uri, 37 green sea turtles were rescued along the Texas coast. Working with our partners @AggiesByTheSea, the Houston Zoo's veterinary staff oversaw the care & treatment of these wild sea turtles. pic.twitter.com/DqoYsJwLcm
— Houston Zoo (@houstonzoo) February 24, 2021
Eleven of the turtles rescued continue to receive veterinary care from Houston Zoo and are not ready for release at this time, the news release said.
Those who find or accidentally catch a sea turtle are urged to call 1.866.TURTLE-5 so experts can provide the necessary care and assess the turtle if needed.