Video: Giant Leatherback turtle released after rescue

3a019a25-a0c0-4780-9320-4aac1ab4b936


An enormous 7'/2.1m Leatherback sea turtle that became stranded last week has been released by New England Aquarium following treatment.

The turtle had been rescued near the tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, last Thursday. He was taken to the Aquarium where he was found to be underweight and suffering from dehydration, trauma and shock. A recent injury was also found to one of his front flippers, resulting in it being much shorter than the other. Most of the wound had healed over, but medical staff at the Aquarium believe the injury had occurred some time this season.

Experts constantly monitored the turtle during treatment and after he began to regain strength and increase his activity level, the decision was made to release him. A satellite tracking tag was attached to his shell so his movements could be monitored.

You can see the video showing his release in the waters south of Cape Cod below:

You can read the full report on the New England Aquarium website.

Why not take out a subscription to Practical Fishkeeping magazine? See our latest subscription offer.