How to Care for a Sick Sea Turtle

Sea turtles are a protected species that are in danger of becoming extinct. The typical dangers of living in the ocean, combined with human imposed dangers, make the sea turtle's life volatile. Injured sea turtles commonly wash ashore, but divers find many on the bottom of the ocean. While sea turtles need care from experienced rehabilitators, you can do some things until more help arrives.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Hide the sea turtle from wild animals and kids. Use a box, bucket or other cover that can keep the sea turtle safe. Wild animals believe that if they can't see you, then you can't see them either. It's important for the sea turtle to remain calm until qualified help arrives.

2. Attempt to move sea turtle only if it's in harm's way. Otherwise, leave it where it is and provide what care you can at that spot.

3. Remember that the sea turtle is sick or injured, so don't feed it or give it water. If the sea turtle has a blockage or other internal injury, forcing food or water down their throat can kill them.

4. Call a wildlife rehabilitation facility or the local wildlife enforcement. They can guide you in the next steps of care until they arrive.

Tips & Warnings

• Common illnesses you find in sea turtles include boat injuries, shark bites, tumors, fish hook infections, eye injuries and blunt head trauma.
• Serious injuries require antibiotics, x-rays, fluids and coaxed eating. Finding a trained professional is the most important step when you find a sick sea turtle.
• Fish away from areas where sea turtles come up for air. If you hook a sea turtle, gently guide it to your boat without pulling on the line or hook, and cut the line as close to the hook as possible.