August 6, 2012
Since 1986, The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida has successfully treated and released over 1,300 Sea Turtles. An enthusiastic founder oversees a veterinarian and a passionate group of employees and volunteers. The team is committed to helping any sea turtle that comes through their door. “We don’t turn any turtle away,” said Bette Zirkelback of The Turtle Hospital.
The Turtle Hospital’s up-to-date equipment allows its staff to treat any ailment on any species of sea turtle, whatever their size. “We mostly see Green sea turtles, Loggerheads, Kimp’s Ridley and Hawksbill turtles,” said Zirkelback.
Turtles that have been entangled in fishing line or have intestinal impactions due to the ingestion of foreign materials, such as plastic, are brought into the hospital. In addition, turtles that have fallen victim to boat collisions and or are infected with the fibropapilloma virus are brought in to receive treatment.
The staff at The Turtle Hospital work tirelessly to ensure that all the turtles under their care are given a second chance. “People ask me why I do this,” said the founder of The Turtle Hospital, Richie Moretti. “It is that feeling that you get when you release them.”
Here are some of the current patients at The Turtle Hospital in Marathon.
Photos: Mera McGrew