What's Happening? | theseaturtleconn

What's going on with the turtles of Cape Cod?

The general problem:

In the late fall and winter months, sea turtles that stray away from their normal routes for laying eggs/breeding, can go into shock from the cold waters. Sometimes they move accidentally and other times the currents move them. These turtles will then wash up on the beaches of Cape Cod and will look dead, however, they still have a chance of survival. Organizations, such as Mass Audubon, work on collecting the sea turtles from the beaches and restoring their health. The New England Aquarium also does a lot of work in helping to restore their health. Hopefully, as we work towards educating local communities about what's happening, even more sea turtles can be saved each year.

What exactly is cold shock?

Cold shock, also called cold stunning, is a hypothermic reaction that occurs in sea turtles if they are in cold water for too long. Symptoms of cold shock is similar to shock in humans, decreased heart rate and as a result, less circulation. This then leads to lethargy and a high chance ofpneumonia. When the sea turtles wash up on the beach, it is possible that they are dead, however, it is also very possible for them to be living. So no matter what it may look like, make sure you call.

Why does this happen to sea turtles?

Sea turtles are cold blooded, now, this doesn't mean that their blood is actually any colder than ours, but it does mean that they are exotherms. Being an exotherm means that the sea turtles can't regulate their body temperature, so if the waters are cold, their body temperature will automatically lower. The only way for them to warm themselves back up is to get into warmer waters, and it may be too late and too far away for the turtles to be able to do this.