CLEARWATER, Fla. ( WWSB ) - The Clearwater Marine Aquarium successfully released a juvenile green sea turtle Sept. 11, the 50th release for the CMA sea turtle rehabilitation team.
The turtle, named Walnut, received extensive care from rehabilitation and veterinary teams.
Walnut was found floating near Madeira Beach April 18. Upon arrival, Walnut had a very thin body condition at intake examination with fibropapilloma tumors present.
Their initial treatment plan consisted of antibiotics and fluid therapy. Walnut also had an old injury to their bottom shell that did not heal properly. Staff did a procedure to open up the wound for debridement, as well as daily cold laser treatment on the wound to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Walnut healed and gained enough weight to be clea