SeaWorld returns 3 sea turtles to Canaveral National Seashore

CANAVERAL NATIONAL SEASHORE, Fla. — Three sea turtles -- two Kemps Ridley and one loggerhead -- were returned to Canaveral National Seashore in Titusville, Fla. Monday morning after rehabilitating at SeaWorld Orlando for several months.

The Kemps Ridley turtles were brought to SeaWorld Orlando on December 23, 2012 by U.S. Coast Guard Airplane, after being rescued just off the coast of Cape Cod, Mass., due to symptoms they suffered from cold stress.

The loggerhead sea turtle was rescued on February 22, 2013 after being found floating in the Port Canaveral Channel emaciated and showing signs of damage to its flippers and neck. Each turtle’s health was evaluated upon arrival at the park by SeaWorld animal experts.

After being medically cleared for their return, the park’s Animal Rescue Team transported the turtles to Canaveral National Seashore.

Prior to their return, the Kemps Ridley sea turtles measured approximately 12 inches in length and weigh about 10 pounds; the loggerhead sea turtle measured 28 inches in length and weighed 98 pounds.

In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the waters. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need - ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned - for more than four decades. So far this year, SeaWorld Orlando has rescued 39 turtles and returned 31.

All turtle rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911

If you see injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.

WFTV