Overview

• 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.