Two loggerheads checked out of the hospital May 30 and headed directly to the beach.
Mote Marine Laboratory and the Florida Aquarium released the two sea turtles — nicknamed Valerie and Mahomes — May 30 from Bayfront Park in Anna Maria.
Mote, in a news release, described the event as “momentous,” marking the finish line of months of care and rehabilitation at Mote’s Sarasota-based Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital and The Florida Aquarium Turtle Rehabilitation Center.
“By combining our expertise and resources, we can provide these magnificent creatures with the best possible care, ensuring their recovery and return to the big blue,” Lynne Byrd, Mote’s rehabilitation and medical care coordinator, said of the partnership.
Valerie was discovered floating nearshore of Longboat Key and initial observations suggested the turtle was affected by toxins from red tide.
The loggerhead was transported to Mote’s hospital Feb. 21 and began receiving injectable antibiotics and subcutaneous fluids until symptoms improved.
When Valerie arrived at the hospital, Mote scientists found the turtle already had a flipper tag and a passive integrated transponder tag placed by Mote’s research team in 2019 to study migratory patterns, growth rates, survival and reproductive output.
Mahomes was found washed ashore near Casey Key Road in Sarasota County and showed symptoms of red tide toxicity.
The loggerhead sea turtle was admitted to Mote’s hospital Feb. 13 — the day after another Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to a Super Bowl win — and then transferred Feb. 24 to the Florida Aquarium Turtle Rehabilitation Center.
Mahomes received antibiotics and supportive care during rehabilitation.
Before the release May 30, the quarterback’s namesake was outfitted with a satellite tag.
“Every turtle matters, as they serve as ambassadors for the critical need to protect and conserve these creatures and the habitats they rely on,” said Byrd. “Every rehabilitated sea turtle is a symbol of hope for the future of our oceans.”
People who see a stranded or dead sea turtle within Sarasota or Manatee county waters, can call Mote at 941-988-0212.
People who see a stranded or dead sea turtle in state waters, can call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline at 888-404-3922.
— Lisa Neff
