Florida Wildlife Officers Rescue 30 Cold-Stunned Sea Turtles During Rare Freeze

Frigid temperatures along Florida's Gulf Coast have endangered marine life, prompting urgent rescue efforts for vulnerable sea turtles.

Two Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers rescued 30 cold-stunned sea turtles from freezing waters in Gulf County.
Cold-stunning occurs when water temperatures drop below 50°F, leaving sea turtles lethargic, unable to swim, and at risk of death.
Volunteers and organizations, including Gulf Coast Turtle Watch, are transporting distressed turtles to rehabilitation centers like Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
Historic cold weather has brought snow and freezing conditions to parts of Florida, threatening not only sea turtles but also manatees and other marine life.
Authorities urge the public to report distressed turtles to wildlife hotlines for safe rescue and rehabilitation before release back into the wild.