NY Marine Rescue Center in Riverhead needs vols to patrol beaches for cold stunned sea turtles

Cold stun season has arrived, putting the lives of sea turtles in cold local waters at risk.

Cold stunning is a life-threatening condition similar to hypothermia in sea turtles, the New York Marine Rescue Center said. It occurs when turtles are unable to migrate to warmer waters before temperatures drop, leaving them lethargic and pushed ashore by strong winds. 

Immediate intervention is critical, and  the New York Marine Rescue Center relies on trained volunteers to patrol New York beaches and rescue stranded turtles.

The first rescue of a green sea turtle this season has already taken place 

at Steers Beach in Northport. The discovery was reported by one of NYMRC’s long-time volunteers and patrollers, the rescue center said.

“Rapid response is critical, decreasing the time it takes to rescue stranded sea turtles dramatically increases their chances of survival,” New York Marine Rescue Center Executive Director Maxine Montello said.

“Our volunteers are the lifeline for these animals, and we are grateful for their dedication in protecting sea turtles along New York beaches,” Montello said.

At the Riverhead-based New York Marine Rescue Center, rescued turtles undergo a careful rehabilitation process. During the first five days, the rescue

team gradually raises the turtle’s internal temperature by 2-4 °C per day, monitors vital signs, and provides medical care. Once stabilized, turtles are moved to larger pools with fellow tank mates and introduced to food. Sea turtles remain in rehab for 6-9 months before being cleared for release.

New York Marine Rescue Center urges anyone who spots a stranded sea turtle to call their hotline at 631-369-9829. 

Residents can also join the rescue center’s cold stun patrol team and help protect these vulnerable species. Check out the

website at www.nymarinerescue.org for upcoming training. Sign-up for all patrol trainings here.

The New York Marine Rescue Center is a rescue and rehabilitation organization that promotes marine conservation. Our mission is to preserve and protect the marine environment through conservation efforts including rescue, rehabilitation, education and research. 

The New York Marine Rescue Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is the primary responder for sick or injured seals, sea turtles, dolphins, porpoises and small toothed whales. It also maintains the only marine mammal and sea turtle rehabilitation center in New York State.