NEWPORT, Oregon — On Nov. 19, OCAq staff responded to reports of a stranded turtle at Beachside State Recreational Site near Waldport, Ore .
Staff transported the animal to OCAq for immediate triage, where it was identified as a cold-stunned adult male Olive Ridley sea turtle . At just below 60°F, his body temperature was 15° below the norm. As marine reptiles, sea turtles rely on their surroundings for warmth, and experience cold-stunning when exposed to cold temperatures, which renders them incapable of eating or navigating. Turtles can float in a cold-stunned state for weeks, often sustaining physical injury, infection, and dehydration before eventually washing ashore. Cold currents and storms can act as catalysts for sea turtle strandings. For this reason, Oregon’s shores see more stranded turtles during the fall and winter months.
Dubbed Sir Acha for his “spicy” personality, the turtle required round-the-clock care and was transferred by OCAq staff to increasingly warm baths in order to raise his temperature without shocking his system. Blood samples and x-rays were taken to check his internal status and, once given the all-clear from veterinary staff, a transport plan unfolded: the turtle would go to SeaWorld San Diego for long-term care and rehabilitation.
In preparation for his journey, Sir Acha was covered in lubricant to prevent dehydration and strapped into a custom stretcher designed to keep him warm and secure. The OCAq team wished him the best as they loaded him on board, and waved as the plane took off.
Sir Acha’s flight was made possible by the nonprofit organization Turtles Fly Too. The network coordinates the use of general aviation and volunteer pilots to transport endangered species, critical response teams, and to educate the community on marine life conservation.
SeaWorld staff will continue to assess Sir Acha and work toward his eventual release. Olive Ridley sea turtles are currently listed under the Endangered Species Act; the reintroduction of even one turtle is enough to impact the overall population. Thanks to the combined efforts of dedicated volunteers and staff, this sea turtle has a second chance at survival.
If you find a sea turtle on the beach, do not attempt to move the animal. Placing it back in the water increases its risk of injury and delays potential rescue efforts. Instead, immediately contact the Oregon State Police Tipline at 800-452-7888 or the Marine Mammal Stranding Network (MMSN) in Oregon, Washington, and California at 1-866-767-6114.
About Oregon Coast Aquarium: Since opening in 1992, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for the health of our ocean. For over three decades this 501(c)3 non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 15,000 animals spanning 300 different species. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR. aquarium.org, 541-867-3474. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates