Marine Science Center to release three sea turtles April 27

Ormond Beach Observer
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by: Pat Kuehn

Community Information Specialist, Volusia County Government

Three juvenile green sea turtles will get a new lease on life when Marine Science Center staff releases them back into the ocean at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 27.

Weather and surf depending, the release will take place at the Beach Street Ramp in Ponce Inlet. Paid beach parking is available on the south side of the ramp, tide permitting. Viewers can also park without charge at the Marine Science Center and walk to the beach.

Cosmic Brownie at intake. Courtesy photo

The rehabilitated turtles include Pizza Roll and Cosmic Brownie, who stranded in Ormond Beach on Feb. 18 and March 1, respectively, covered with barnacles and algae and suffering from lethargy, hypoglycemia and dehydration; and K’nex, who was found struggling to submerge in the waters off Ponce Inlet on March 3.

All three received diagnostics including bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound and exams. They were given a healthy diet of proteins and vegetation and were treated with fluid therapy, vitamin injections and antibiotics. After completing their rehabilitation, they have been cleared by the Marine Science Center’s veterinarian for release.

The Marine Science Center is open to the public at 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet. Visitors may view the turtle hospital and explore a marine display area from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day but Monday. For more information, visit www.marinesciencecenter.com or call 386-304-5545.