ORA Farms is joining the battle to help rescue and rehabilitate thousands of sea turtles suffering thermal shock from cold coastal waters due to the recent cold weather that has been impacting the southern United States and Florida in particular. By jumping in and offering space in some empty large-scale growout containers, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission is bringing some of the turtles to a more suitable environment to hopefully make a full recovery before being reintroduced to their natural habitat once the weather improves. More information and pictures after the break.
After contacting state agencies, researchers and volunteers involved in the rescue efforts making the availability of space known, over 100 Green Sea Turtles are now housed at ORA.
“Florida officials were so pleased with our systems and ability to hold the turtles under controlled conditions that we are expecting more to come. All the turtles are so far doing well and will be released back to the wild once cleared by fishery biologists,” said ORA in their press release.
Many Sea Turtles have died in the wild as a result of this unusual cold snap. But many more have been saved by the efforts of people across the State and hopefully they will live to once again nest on the sunny beaches of Florida.
“For us at ORA, making this small contribution to help of one of the most beloved and endangered sea creatures in a time of need was an easy decision. Kudos should be given to Laura Cousin and Dustin Dorton and many other ORA staff members who contacted authorities, volunteered time and organized the preparation of the hatchery,” they continued.
Our staff at Reef Builders offers our appreciation to the team at ORA for stepping in and helping these wonderful creatures in dire times.
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