Leatherback Sea Turtle lands in South Carolina Aquarium for treatment
A sick Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) was admitted to South Carolina Aquarium this past weekend. This has turned out to be quite a challenge, both to get the turtle, named “Yawkey”, to the aquarium and provide space for treatment. One can only imagine, seeing as Yawkey weighs almost 500 pounds and is more than 5 feet long! They won’t be able to keep Yawkey very long, as they don’t have the space to provide long-term care without undue stress on the turtle. Though uncertain of his/her exact ailment, Yawkey is showing improvement and expected to be returned to the wild in a few days. Sadly, this larger Leatherback didn’t fare so well, issuing a reminder to dispose of plastic products (especially store bags) properly.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Three Chelonia mydas (Green Sea Turtles) released after stay at Australian Seabird Rescue.
Czech wild population of European Pond Turtles drops to historical low.
Borneo plans awareness campaign to eliminate the sale of turtle eggs before legal action is implemented.
In non-chelonian conservation news, the Myanmar Jerdon’s Babbler is spotted for the first time in 70 years!
Crime and Punishment
Many of us remember when this story broke; here is an update. Young woman who videotaped torture of a Gopher Tortoise has been ruled not competent to stand trial and will be getting treatment to restore competency show she can stand trial.
A Cuban doctor was arrested in Brazil for trying to leave the country with two Red-Footed Tortoises intended as pets. (Translation is somewhat poor.)
Did You Know…
Leatherback Sea Turtles have the largest range distribution of all reptiles, possibly all vertebrates. They can be found in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans; as far north as Alaska and as far south as Southern New Zealand.
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Photo by South Carolina Aquarium
