A Second Chance for Alex, a Rescued Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle
Alex the Sea Turtle… A Tale of Rescue, Rehab, and Release
Gulf Shores, Ala. - (OBA) - On June 9, 2023, at Laguna Key in Gulf Shores, an adult Kemp's Ridley sea turtle, affectionately named Alex, was released back into the wild after a challenging rescue and rehabilitation journey.
Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, also known as Atlantic Ridley sea turtles, are the rarest and most endangered species of sea turtles in the world. They primarily occupy habitats around the Gulf of Mexico, although rising ocean temperatures are affecting their migrations into the Atlantic. The species is currently listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and conservation efforts are ongoing to rebuild their numbers​.
In an unfortunate encounter at the Gulf State Park Pier in March, Alex found himself unintentionally hooked by an angler. The hook had lodged itself deep in his throat, presenting a challenge for its removal. To compound the gravity of his condition, Alex was also diagnosed with pneumonia, escalating the urgency of his predicament. Following a painstakingly intensive rehabilitation spanning three months, Alex reclaimed his freedom on the 9th of June, starting a new chapter in his life.
The Gulfarium's C.A.R.E. Center, known for its exceptional work in marine animal rehabilitation, came to Alex's aid. After receiving intensive care that included the removal of the hook and treatment for pneumonia, Alex was deemed ready for release.
Alex's release was marked by a sense of celebration and hope. A crowd of spectators, including humans and a couple of dolphins, gathered to witness the release.
Alex's release is a success story for the Gulfarium and for the Kemp Ridley sea turtle population. It is a reminder that with care and attention, even the most endangered species can be saved. The Gulfarium is a marine mammal park and aquarium that is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles. The park has rescued and released over 1,000 sea turtles since 1955.
In light of Alex's story, it is crucial to remind anyone who hooks a sea turtle or encounters one distressed to call 866-SEA-TURTLE for help. Each rescue contributes to the conservation of these magnificent creatures and our shared marine ecosystems​.
We can all do our part to help Kemp Ridley, and other sea turtles by reducing our impact on the environment, supporting organizations that protect sea turtles, and reporting any sea turtle sightings to the authorities.
Here are some additional facts about Kemp Ridley sea turtles:
- They are named after Richard M. Kemp, a fisherman from Key West, Florida, who first submitted the species for identification in 1906, according to the NOAA Fisheries website.
- They are an endangered species, with an estimated population of about 10,000 individuals.
- Their main threats are habitat loss, poaching, and bycatch in fishing nets.
- They are an important part of the marine ecosystem, and their role in the food chain is vital.
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