San Diego Shocker: Giant Sea Turtle Found on Coronado Beach

San Diego Shocker: Giant Sea Turtle Found on Coronado BeachSan Diego Shocker: Giant Sea Turtle Found on Coronado Beach A colossal sea turtle washed ashore on Coronado Beach on Tuesday, leaving beachgoers and wildlife experts in awe. The leatherback turtle, estimated to weigh over 1,500 pounds and measure over 6 feet in length, was discovered by a passerby who alerted authorities. Marine Animal Rescue Team (MART) responded to the scene and assessed the turtle’s condition. MART veterinarians determined that the turtle was alive but emaciated and suffering from external injuries. The turtle was loaded onto a flatbed truck and transported to SeaWorld San Diego’s Animal Health and Rescue Center for immediate medical care. Leatherback turtles are the largest living sea turtles and are endangered due to habitat loss, fishing, and plastic pollution. They are known for their long migrations across oceans, but it is unclear how this particular turtle ended up on Coronado Beach. Experts believe the turtle may have become disoriented or injured during its migration route. The injuries to its mouth and shell suggest a collision with a boat or entanglement in fishing gear. SeaWorld veterinarians are working around the clock to stabilize the turtle’s condition. The turtle is currently receiving intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and pain medication. Veterinarians are also monitoring the turtle’s breathing and feeding behavior. The prognosis for the turtle is guarded, but SeaWorld staff are hopeful that it can be rehabilitated and released back into the wild. If the turtle is unable to be released, SeaWorld may consider a long-term rehabilitation program to provide it with a sanctuary. The discovery of this giant sea turtle on Coronado Beach serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting marine life and reducing plastic pollution that threatens these magnificent creatures.