Marine Science Center Releases 167-pound Loggerhead

Posted On: February 27, 2024

Badlands has been returned to the sea following two months of treatment and rehabilitation at the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet. The 167-pound loggerhead sea turtle was brought to the center’s turtle hospital after he stranded in New Smyrna Beach with mild dehydration and an impacted gastrointestinal tract. Staff treated him with fluids, antibiotics, and vitamins and fed him a healthy diet of crabs and crustaceans, enabling him to pack on 11 pounds before his release.

How can you help injured sea turtles? If you see a sea turtle foundering in the surf or lying on the beach, immediately notify Beach Safety at 386-239-6414. Between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., call the Volusia Sheriff’s Office at 386-248-1777, ext. 6.

Watch the video of the release.

Did you know? The Marine Science Center is an environmental learning center providing rehabilitation for sick and injured sea turtles and seabirds. Visitors can learn about marine life in the center’s exhibit hall, which includes a 1,400-gallon touch pool with rays, skates, sharks and horseshoe crabs, as well as a 5,000-gallon artificial reef aquarium, living reef and a gift shop. Since opening in 2002, the Marine Science Center has cared for more than 25,000 turtles and other reptiles, as well as more than 19,000. Learn more about the Marine Science Center at https://www.marinesciencecenter.com.