Sea Turtle Rescued From Peconic Bay in Southampton

A cold-stunned turtle was rescued by the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation from Peconic Bay in Southampton on Thanksgiving.

The juvenile Atlantic green sea turtle is approximately one foot long and weighs 4 pounds, according to group.

Upon arrival, the turtle’s heart rate was around 7 beats per minute, the average is between 25 to 35 beats per minute for a healthy turtle, the group said in a press release.

It’s body temperature was under 59 degrees fahrenheit as well, with the average being 77 degrees fahrenheit.

Currently the turtle is responding well and eating on its own, the group said in a press release.

This is the time of year that we see turtles on the beach that are in need of assistance.

Cold stun turtle season occurs in the cooler months when our waters reach temperatures below 50 degrees which is when sea turtles across Long Island start to succumb to coldstunning, or hypothermia which can cause them to stop eating and swimming

Walking the beaches is crucial all across Long Island, and after high tide as the tide begins to recede is when many turtles may be spotted.

If a sea turtle is sighted, the group asks that the public call the 24-hour hotline at 631-369-9829 immediately so they may assist.