Poinsettia discovered struggling at the water’s surface in the Indian River Lagoon
Juvenile green sea turtle named Poinsettia has been successfully released back into the ocean following months of rehabilitation, marking a positive outcome for local wildlife rescue efforts. The turtle was rescued by Coastal Connections and transported to the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center at Brevard Zoo for treatment.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Juvenile green sea turtle Poinsettia has been successfully released back into the ocean following months of rehabilitation, marking a positive outcome for Space Coast wildlife rescue efforts.
Poinsettia was originally discovered struggling at the water’s surface in the Indian River Lagoon, just south of Sebastian Inlet, on Dec. 17.
The turtle was rescued by Coastal Connections and transported to the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center at Brevard Zoo for treatment.
“Veterinary teams treated Poinsettia for gastrointestinal issues and a heavy infestation of marine leeches, which contributed to anemia and weakened responsiveness,” said Brevard Zoo officials.
The turtle was also diagnosed with fibropapillomatosis, a disease that causes tumors to develop on sea turtles.
While there is no cure, Poinsettia’s tumors were determined to be small and not life-threatening.
After receiving medical care, proper nutrition, and time to recover, Poinsettia showed significant improvement.
The turtle was recently returned to the ocean, and experts are hopeful that, with a strengthened immune system and a return to its natural habitat, Poinsettia’s condition will continue to improve.
The successful rehabilitation highlights the ongoing efforts of Space Coast organizations working to protect marine life and preserve the health of Brevard’s coastal ecosystems.
