Sea Turtle X-rays Present a Solemn Reminder to Protect Our Fragile Ecosystems
Could a turtle really become a gold mine? This unfortunate sea turtle was the victim of such a phenomenon. “Piggy Bank” was discovered by a group of locals and was transported to the Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Conservation Center in Chonburi province, where veterinarians performed x-rays to determine the cause of an abnormal lump on the plastron. The x-rays revealed a large volume of coins lodged near the stomach along with fish bait. When residents continually tossed coins into the body of water, the sea turtle ingested them and over time developed a large amount inside its body. Nantarika Chansue, professor of veterinary science, asks residents to discontinue the practice of throwing coins into the water since it is extremely detrimental to the animals residing there. Currently the sea turtle is being fed with supplements in order for her to regain strength before attempting surgery.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
India: Wildlife department implementing conservation program for Lepidochelys olivacea
US: Temperature Sex Determination could become a concern for sea turtles
AU: Research predicts future success of Natator depressus
Miscellany
UK: Famous tourist attraction losing ground
US: Orange turtles? A closer look reveals the true story.
Malaysia: Close call for an 80 kg. turtle
Did You Know…
During breeding season the nares of male Indotestudo species assume a red tinge.
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Photo from Asaree Thaitrakulpanich.
