Betty White is ready for release!
By: Kristin Child
Source: Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
Date: March 10, 2015
This loggerhead turtle washed ashore on November 22, 2014, on the shore in Hollywood, Florida. She was affectionately given the name Betty White because of her golden Hollywood charm! Betty White was lethargic upon arrival, but antibiotics, fluids, and a healthy seafood diet have helped her gain her strength back! You are invited to join Gumbo Limbo Nature Center for Betty White’s release on March 19, 2015.
The release will be held at Spanish River Park, located at 3001 North Ocean Blvd in Boca Raton (33432). Beach entry fees will be waived beginning at 4:00 PM. Enter the beach through the center tunnel. The release will begin promptly at 4:30, so leave plenty of time to park, and to walk to the release location. No RSVP required for this free event!
About Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
The Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Facility was opened on January 1, 2010. For the past two decades, the turtle conservation program has rescued sick and injured sea turtles throughout south Palm Beach County. However, they have sent turtles to other facilities to be treated. After being licensed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on January 1st, a cold snap hit Florida stranding nearly 5000 endangered green sea turtles. Gumbo Limbo treated and released more than 177 of those turtles.
In addition to treating these turtles for cold stun, 35 of those turtles also had surgery to remove noncancerous tumors from their eyes and flippers. These tumors are caused by a disease called fibropapillomatosis. Fibropapillomatosis is thought to have a strong correlation to polluted waters.
For more information about the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center go to http://www.gumbolimbo.org/Home