Marine Science Center Set to Release Four Green Sea Turtles Today

Volusia County’s Marine Science Center plans to celebrate the successful rehabilitation of four green sea turtles with a public release at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 19, at the Beach Street Ponce Inlet beach approach. Watch as the four juvenile green sea turtles return home after being found locally within the last few months.

Paid beach parking is available on the south side of the ramp, depending on the tide conditions, or viewers can park without charge at the Marine Science Center and walk to the beach. Learn more about each turtle below:

• Waccasassa

• Rescued from Daytona Beach in August 2023, Waccasassa was found with neurologic symptoms and was unable to open its mouth. A feeding to tube was placed and the turtle received supportive care for several months. Waccasassa was also treated at a local veterinary clinic over the course of several weeks.

• El Dorado

• Found stranded in New Smyrna Beach in December 2023, El Dorado had heavy amounts of epibiota, organisms living on the shell of the turtle, along with lethargy and pneumonia. Treatment for El Dorado included nebulization, antibiotics, fluids, and vitamins.

• Noyan

• Noyan was found floating and unable to dive due to buoyancy issues in Edgewater on Feb. 3. Noyan was diagnosed with gastrointestinal issues and treated with gastrointestinal motility medications, fluids, antibiotics, and vitamins.

• Orla

• On Feb. 4, Orla was found in New Smyrna Beach presenting mild acidosis and lethargy. Orla was treated with fluids, vitamins, and antibiotics.

The Marine Science Center is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of turtles, reptiles, and seabirds. Located at 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet, the center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturday and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit www.marinesciencecenter.com  or call 386-304-5545.