Cold-Stunned Sea Turtle Sightings On NY Beaches | On The Water

NEW YORK — The first winter cold snap was rough on commuters, but according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the winter weather caught vulnerable sea life off guard as well.

According to the agency, cold-stunned sea turtle sightings have been reported on New York beaches in recent weeks.

There are four species of sea turtles that can be found in New York's coastal waters: green, Kemp's Ridley, leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles, the state agency said. The turtles typically remain local in our area during the warmer months from approximately May through November and will typically begin their migration south to warmer nesting waters by mid-November.

But, something has changed in recent years.

As a result of climate change, warmer water temperatures have caused sea turtles to remain in our area longer than usual, officials said. When there is a sudden drop in water temperature before sea turtles migrate out of the area, they can fall victim to cold-stunning, a hypothermic condition that results in a lethargic state.

Sea turtles that are cold-stunned will wash ashore on New York beaches and require immediate professional care, according to the NYSDEC.

Officials said that anyone who sees a sea turtle wash ashore, should call the New York State Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at (631) 369-9829. It's important to give as much information as possible. The response teams from Atlantic Marine Conservation Society and New York Marine Rescue Center need a detailed report of where the animal is located. If possible, write down the coordinates and/or mark the turtle's location with something, such as a stick or driftwood, that will be easy for the team to find.

Officials caution not to touch the turtle, put the turtle back in the water, or remove the animal from the beach. Despite good intentions, any additional sudden changes in temperature or more stress on the animal can lead to death.

Sea turtles are federally protected animals and are only to be handled by authorized personnel.

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