By ARABELLA SERRATA
Special to the PARADE
Sea Turtle Inc. is continuing to fight the constant battle against the endangerment of the Kemps Ridley Sea Turtle. Volunteers and employees of the non-profit work tirelessly to push for the rehabilitation of injured
turtles and keep the species from falling too deep into the depths of endangerment. Recently, it has taken more patients under its care.
One of the new patients is called Viking. According to Sea Turtle Inc., this scaly warrior championed the harsh rocks at the Boca Chica Jetties. He was found stuck between the rocks. Viking had minor abrasions on
the plastron, the somewhat flat underbelly of the turtle shell. He also had moderate tumors in his eyes and smaller ones around his body. He has undergone a successful surgery to remove the tumors and is now
swimming with a healthy appetite.
Boji is another addition to the hospital. He was found in January on South Padre Island, tangled in a fishing line. He also had tumors on all four of his flippers and entanglement wounds. Fishing lines are known to
seriously injure and even kill Sea Turtles in the process, according to Sea Turtle Inc. Boji has undergone surgery to remove the tumors and his wounds are healing. The staff at Sea Turtle inc. are continuously
monitoring his progress.
Okapi was found in May. They were also severely tangled in a fishing line. After Okapi was relieved of the line, swelling occurred at the front flippers and mouth areas. Treatment has drastically improved Okapi’s
condition and allowed them to be more active.
Habanero was also found in the rocks of the Boca Chica Jetties Beach Side. He had moderate abrasions at the top and bottom of his shell. He has been healing at a steady progress and continues to gain strength.
The process of rehabilitating the turtles can take anywhere from days to years. It is important not to release them until the staff is certain they are viable to survive in the wild. Once they are declared ready for
release, they are evaluated by their vet tech, veterinarian and executive director.
Anyone can adopt and support a range of turtles across the facility. For more information, visit the official website at seaturtleinc.org. Sea Turtle Inc shares regular updates on its Facebook page. Those who happen
to find dead, stranded, or injured sea turtle are highly encouraged to call Sea Turtle Inc.’s emergency number at (956) 243-4361.
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