01/24/2025
A reminder from Escambia County Natural Resources Management.
Humans aren't the only ones stunned by this week's freak snowstorm. Even as temperatures start to climb, be on the lookout for cold stunned turtles!
Sea turtles, like most reptiles, rely on the environment to stay warm and active. When water temperatures drop, especially below 50* F, sea turtles can experience cold-stunning or cold-stress, which slows down their heart rates and circulatory systems. Cold-stunned animals are slow and lethargic, which puts them at risk for boat strikes and other injuries and prevents normal feeding and foraging behaviors. The good news is, when spotted in time and treated properly, many cold-stunned animals can be safely released back into the wild!
If you see a turtle or manatee washed up on the beach, injured, or floating unmoving at the surface, call our Marine Resources staff immediately at (850) 281-5904 or the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline 1-888-404-3922.